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THREESCORE YEARS : 






AN 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY, 

CONTAINING INCIDENTS OF VOYAGES AND TRAVELS, 

INCLUDING 

SIX YEARS IN A MAN-OF-WAR 

DETAILS OF THE WAR BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND THE 

ALGERINE GOVERNMENT, BOMBARDMENT OF ALGIERS 

BY LORD EXMOUTH, AND ITS SUBJUGATION 

BY THE FRENCH. 

ALSO, 

I TWO YEARS IN CALIFORNIA, 

A VISIT TO THE CRIMEA DURING THE BOMBARDMENT AND 

CAPTURE OF SEBASTOPOL, JOURNEY THROUGH ASIA 

MINOR, SYRIA, PALESTINE AND EGYPT. 

WITH ILLUSTRATIONS. 



BY SAMUEL F. HOLBROOK. 



BOSTON : 
JAMES FRENCH AND COMPANY, 

78 WASHINGTON STREET. 

1857. 



p 






Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1856, by 

MARY JANE, AND ELIZA ANN H0LBR0OK, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts. 



I 



/■ 



PRESS OP 8. CHISM, 

IRANELIN PRINTING HOUSE, 

BObTC*. 



TO THE READER. 

It was my intention at the commencement, to have included 
all within the limits of five hundred pages. In order to do 
this, I found it would he necessary to contract the narrative, 
so much as to injure it ; although I did not intend to dwell 
upon the description or localities of countries, and much other 
matter that would more properly belong to a history, than 
an autobiography. Have accordingly concluded to issue 
another edition or volume, which will contain much of an 
amusing and entertaining character, besides the showing up 
of certain personages which have been omitted for want of 
room. In the preface, I have apologized for the style, and 
begged the reader to excuse the blunders. As I have now 
become somewhat initiated into the complicated modus op- 
erandi of following up the various functionaries required in 
getting up a book, the next edition will show whether I have 
improved by my bought experience. 

Respectfully, The Author. 



' 



PREFACE. 

I am aware that a preface is seldom read, unless it is very brief. I 
wish however to say a few words to the reader before he commences 
reading the narrative, which is, that I have used my own style, endeavoring 
to write, just as I should talk, if telling a story. In some cases, I have 
suppressed names, as the parties are now living, and probably would not 
like to see themselves in print. It is possible that I may in some in- 
stances have been mistaken in dates, but this I do r « conceive to be of 
much importance so long as the subject is correct. And not to crowd 
too much matter in this volume, I have avoided descriptions of countries, 
as much as could be done without abruptness, excepting only where it 
appeared to be indispensable. 

I have quoted much, relative to Mr. Fulton, which appeared to me to 
belong to the narrative, and which I think will interest the reader. 1 
have also made other quotations, which appeared to me to be applicable 
to the place where they are inserted. Chapter 15, consists entirely of 
matters relative to the capture of the U. S. frigate, Essex ; as I consider 
it to have been the most sanguinary battle that occurred during the late 
war with England. At the commencement of the chapter, I have given 
my reasons for its insertion, which may be a sufficient apology for the di- 
gression. The bombardment of Algiers, by Lord Exmouth, is also a 
subject which must interest the world, and though obliged to condense 
it, the subject has not suffered by the contraction. 

It is indispensable that a book writer should be well acquainted with 
the language in which he writes, — also his subject. 

The responsibility, or success of this volume, I throw upon those of my 
friends who have urged me to write it, as the following extract will show. 

11 1 don't know of anything that would give me more pleasure, than to 

read the narrative of your life. Mr. J d observed to me after you left 

Washington, that if you would give him your manuscript, he would pub- 
lish it immediately. 1 hope you will collect your journals and pencilings, 
and let us have them in the shape of a book." 



VI 



Extract from the reply : — " You caused me to smile when you spoke 
about writing the history of my life. You know book writers, in order 
to be successful, must be popular. If the President of the United States 
was to write his autobiography, every body would read it, on account of 
the author. But when a man in the ordinary walks of life attempts it, 
his book must run the risk of anything more than an ordinary reception. 
Another objection, my style probably would not suit the sentimental read- 
er. There would not be flourish enough about it, no beautiful display of 
emotions on leaving my native shore, no romantic description of the broad 
expanse of ocean ; no detail of catching a dolphin with a vivid admiration 
of his dying hues ; no capturing a Mother Cary's Chicken with a pin- 
hook ; (the bird's name you would be sure to have in Latin,) then the 
dreadful effect it had on the minds of the superstitious sailor, who esteem 
the death of a Mother Cary's Chicken ominous of some fearful catastro- 
phe ; nor any paroxysm of delight on beholding Albion for the first time j 
besides a catalogue of first impressions, which always looks to me to be 
very flat." 

Throughout the narrative I have not been personal, except only where in- 
dividuality required it. Perhaps I should apologize to the reader for the 
abbreviated words, which in conversation would rank under the category 
of profane, and hesitated some time before I felt willing to insert them in 
their present form ; but upon conclusion, felt that as I have aimed at the 
verbatim in all colloquies and conversations ; the reader would pass lightly 
over in this narrative what would on any other occasion have been con- 
sidered an error. 

The story of a smuggler I give just as I had it on my journal, as I 
have also done with everything of which I was not an eyewitness. I may 
have omitted quotation marks where they properly belonged, which I hope 
may be excused as an oversight. 

Egotism in an autobiography is unavoidable, and if on the whole, the 
style meets the approbation of the reader, then the highest wishes and 
expectations have been realized by the author. 

S. F. H. 



9 



CHAPTER I. 



Birthplace. — First act of mischief. — Punishment. — Object for relating 
it. — Narrow escape from drowning. — Slight reference to New York 
sixty years ago. — Description of my first school and my first whipping. 

— Removal to Worcester, Roxbury and Boston. — Remarks on Boston 
in 1798. — My father enters into partnership. — Is defrauded. — Return 
to New York at the solicitation of my maternal grandfather. — Come 
back to Boston for education. — Enter school. — Comparison between 
then and now, respecting school advantages. — Cruelty of the masters, 
and description of the punishment. — Unpleasant affair. — Leave school. 

— Had been much injured by keeping bad company. — Quarrel between 
boys of different grades. — Frequent fights, not condition that makes 
the man. — Folly of personal resentment. — Narrow escape from injury. 

— Good counsel from a good boy. — Forsake my bad companions, and 
lead a different life. — Punishment of offenders by public whipping. — 
A lesson for me. 

It may be immaterial to the reader, where, and when I 
was born, but in order to make a beginning, my birthplace 
was New York City, July 16, 1793. The first act of my 
life, of which I have a distinct recollection, was voluntarily 
taking up a stone, and breaking an earthern vessel belong- 
ing to an old lady, residing in the same house with myself. 
I was then about three years of age. Now what could have 
induced me to commit this mischievous trespass on the old 
lady's property I cannot tell, excepting only that I wanted 
to see if 1 could hit it, at a certain distance ; in which, unfor- 
tunately for me, I succeeded, for on complaint of Mrs. Morrell, 
my father took me across his knee, and the concussion of his 
brawny hand made me resolve never to break another " old 
lady's jug." I name this trifling incident, to illustrate the 
truth of what is sometimes called, innate sin, or an inherent 
disposition or propensity in children, to do wrong. All who 
have brought up families are well acquainted with this matter, 



12 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and see the necessity of watching the incipient developments 
of their children, and to check everything that is wrong, 
following the precept of the Bible, " Train up a child in the 
way he should go." 

Many who have suffered an ignominious death upon the 
scaffold, while standing with the halter about their necks, 
have declared to the gazing crowd, that had their parents 
discharged their duty, in correcting them for the first lie, or 
the first petty theft, they in all probability would have been 
saved from this untimely end. And so with the other sex. 
How many there are, now leading lives of infamy and dis- 
grace, who attribute their downfall to errors in early educa- 
tion. 

The next event of my early life which is indelibly fixed 
on my mind, is the sensation of drowning, when about four 
years old. I went with some boys to see a dead animal 
thrown into the river ; and in my eagerness to view the 
launch, fell overboard, and as the distance from the top of 
the wharf to the water rendered it impossible for any one to 
reach me, I remained in the water until rescued by means, 
the particulars of which I never knew. 

It so happened that, notwithstanding the river is always 
running rapidly, either one way or the other, the place where 
I fell was a short eddy, just around the corner of the wharf. 
Had I been out only a few feet further, the tide would have 
swept me away, and of course, that would have been the 
last of me. I remember to this day as though it were 
but yesterday, while struggling under water trying to get up 
as I thought, the recollection of playing on the wharf, the 
swallowing a large quantity of salt water, and a perfect 
knowledge that I was drowning. I was taken from the 
water, resuscitated, and carried home, but knew nothing 
more until consciousness returned. How many times since 
have I regretted being taken from the river. Had I have 
drowned, how much anguish would have been averted. But 
this is all wrong, since our lives belong to God. He takes 
thorn when and how he pleases. Every man was born for 
something, known only to Him who created us ; and as for 
trouble, that man or woman is a coward who expects to get 



Still question'd me the story of my life 

From year to year ; the battles, sieges, fortunes, 

That I had passed. 

I ran it through, even from my boyish davs, 

To the very moment that I was bade to tell it ; 

Wherein I spoke of most disastrous changes, 

Of moving accidents, by flood and field, 

Of hairbreadth 'scapes 'i imminent, deadly breach ; 

Of being taken by the insolent foe 

And held a. prisoner of my redemption thence, 

And with it all my travel's history, 

"Wherein of countries vast, and deserts wild, 

Rough quarries, rocks, and hills, whose heads touch heaven, 

It was my hint to speak. 

Shaxspeahe. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 13 

through life without it in some shape, Campbell, in his 
overland journey to India, refers to these beautiful lines : 

" This world, what art thou ? 
Thy school O misery ; our only lesson in it is, 
To learn to suffer ; and he who knows not that 
Was born for nothing." 

New York, in those days, was a different looking city from 
what it is now. Then it was scarcely half as large, and, 
what were then fields and orchards, are now splendid squares 
and parks. 

Around and in the vicinity of the Battery, was the court 
end of the city. John Jacob Astor was then a thrifty and 
enterprising merchant, living in very modest style ; and the 
few aged millionaires who now survive, and many who have 
long since gone to their final resting place, and whose vast 
property, if it had been kept together, would have amounted 
to an incredible sum ; many of these were then sellers of 
nuts and apples, waiters in kitchens, small retailing grocers, 
and some of the descendants of these thrifty men, are now 
grappling with abject poverty ; and often may be seen with 
bloated faces and tattered garments. 

Yellow fever and small pox prevailed nearly every sum- 
mer, although at some seasons very much mitigated. These 
sickly summers were generally succeeded by intensely cold 
winters, which was the cause of much suffering among the 
poor. The city depended on Connecticut sloops and other 
small vessels for fuel, and when the East and North Rivers 
were frozen, which they were sometimes for four or five weeks, 
wood then became both dear and scarce. Coal as fuel was 
scarcely known ; anthracite, or any other than imported coal, 
had not yet been discovered, so that the poor were for many 
days, and in the most inclement part of winter, without a parti- 
cle of fire. It was on one of these occasions that the corpora- 
tion ordered a long row of wooden buildings, which stood on 
the Battery, to be torn down and distributed among the most 
destitute. 

These buildings had been formerly used as barracks in 



14 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the Revolutionary War, and it may be said that for once they 
kept up a brisk fire. Another incident occurred when I was 
about five years of age, which has also made a lasting im- 
pression on my mind, and from which, I have in subsequent 
life drawn many useful illustrations. I was put to school to 
an old man, who taught us in an old dilapidated garret. 
The old fellow wore a large white wig, an old-fashioned coat 
with "buttons down before," greasy breeches, and large shoe 
buckles ; he kept a good sized stick which might have an- 
swered well for an illustration of perpetual motion. One 
day he undertook to flog me, but by various convolutions 
and twistings, I got off almost " unscathed." But, oh, for 
human weakness ; I was simple enough to tell him he didn't 
hurt me after all. "Aha !" said he, " didn't hurt, eh? then 
I'll try again," so suiting the action to the word, gave me a 
regular thrashing, which I guess hurt a little. However, 
the credit of making a man of me was not to devolve on 
him. 

In the summer of 1798, we removed to Worcester, Mass., 
it being the birthplace of my father and of my paternal 
grandfather, it was then but a sparse village. Could some 
of my old relatives get out of their graves, and be placed in 
a populous street, they would be sadly puzzled to find their 
way back again. 

In the autumn of the same year we came to Eoxbury. 
The same remarks apply to this city, as to New York and 
Worcester, it having also undergone a metamorphosis, and 
is now one of the prettiest little cities in Massachusetts. 
Here my father commenced his business, as a worker in 
ivory and tortoise shell. We remained one year in Eoxbury, 
and then removed to Boston. Shortly after our location in 
Boston, I came very near drowning again. 1 had gone in 
to bathe near the house, and before I was aware, got beyond 
my depth, and would have drowned had not a man accident- 
ally come near the water-side and pulled me out. 

And but a few days after this, an Irish boy with whom I 
had a short time previous disagreed with in play, came be- 
hind me with a large, sharp stone, and struck me with such 
force as to deprive me of my senses. His name was McNiel, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 15 

and whenever I come across this name I always feel the 
wound in my head. But " I guess I paid him off." 

My father established his factory at the south part of the 
town, then called Washington street. 

At that time, and for some years after, w r hat is now called 
Washington street was then the Main street, and from the 
old Fortification, which was near the mansion of the late J. 
D. Williams, Esq., on the neck, down to a little north of 
State street, it was divided into Washington, Orange, New- 
bury and Marlborough streets, and below that, to the market, 
Cornhill, and Dock Square. 

Boston, since 1798, has undergone a remarkable change, 
both in beauty and convenience. There is hardly a portion 
of it, of any magnitude, that has not been extensively im- 
proved. Then, where Charles street now is, was a gravelly 
beach extending from the bottom of the Common to Cam- 
bridge bridge. This beach was overlooked by a steep hill, 
called " Mount Whoredom," on the summit of which was 
a powder house, and around that vicinity, and on the north- 
ern slope, there was a collection of negroes, and characters 
of the worst grade. 

In 1805 and 1806, the top of this hill was dug away, and 
removed by a railway, to build Charles street. Philanthropic 
and enterprising capitalists then commenced the purgation 
of this filthy place, by erecting handsome brick dwellings, 
and laying out regular and convenient streets. And it is 
now one of the most beautiful portions of our city. Then, 
from Fort Hill to Long Wharf, was little else than a beach ; 
no India, or Central wharves until several years after ; but 
'tis not my intention to enter upon the history of Boston, 
therefore I have merely alluded to a few among the many 
valuable improvements that our city has undergone. 

My father's business succeeded well, and would, no doubt, 
have continued well, had he not unfortunately formed a con- 
nection with two unprincipled villains who nearly ruined 
him. These two scoundrels, one named Eichards, and the 
other Eobbins, proposed a partnership, pretending to have a 
knowledge of the business. They were also to furnish a 
certain amount of capital, which, it afterwards appeared, they 



16 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

did not possess. After being together about a year, by 
which time they had acquired a considerable knowledge of 
the business, they persuaded my father to take a lot of 
manufactured articles to New York, and establish a branch 
there ; and himself to manage it, while they carried on the 
concern in Boston. This all appeared so plausible, and my 
father, not suspecting treachery, readily consented, and a 
quantity of goods were packed up, and as there was no other 
mode of conveyance between Boston and New York than the 
mail stage, and Hingham packets, my father chose to go by 
land to Connecticut, with the intention of selling the goods 
he had with him, and also of obtaining customers in the 
towns through which he might pass. He had been absent 
only a few days, when these cloven-footed villains came out 
with their scheme, which was to rob my father. My mother 
was not aware of what they were doing until it was too late 
to prevent it. They had collected the most valuable part of 
the stock, and what cash they could get hold of, and then 
went off. Before they went, however, my mother, under- 
standing what they were about, demanded an explanation. 
The reply was, that the partnership was broken up, and that 
my father had his portion of the property with him. All 
this she knew to be false, and before she could obtain assist- 
ance from any one, they were off, and I believe we never 
heard of them afterwards. They no doubt met their deserts, 
as all such villains are sure to do. My father was apprised 
of the whole affair, by letter, immediately, but did not get 
the letter until some weeks after they had gone off. It was 
sad news for him, but taking the whole matter into consider- 
ation, as the prospect for business was good in New York, 
and as they had taken all, and probably there were some de- 
mands against the concern, he arranged matters so that it 
was not necessary for him to return to Boston. In the fol- 
lowing spring he sent for his family. We put our household 
stuff on board a Hingham packet, which plied between Bos- 
ton and New York, and sailed on the 20th of May, 1801, 
and arrived there in eleven days, all well, and were soon 
comfortably located. After being in New York about 
eleven months, my maternal grandfather sent for me to 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 17 

return to Boston for the benefit of my education, as the New 
York schools were very much inferior to those of Boston. 

My parents being willing, I returned to my grandfather's 
family, and was put to school. At that time there were sep- 
arate* schoolhouses for each department of scholarship, so 
that the attendance was half the day to each, during the 
summer months, both for boys and girls, the latter not 
attending school during the winter; and then the four classes 
were divided into two parts, the first and third made one, the 
second and fourth the other. The reading and grammar 
schools that I attended were the old Bingham, at the head 
of Nassau street, under charge of Dr. Asa Bullard, and the 
other was at the head of West street, and commanded by 
Rufus Webb, Esq. 

I often look back at my school days, and compare the ad- 
vantages of that time with those of the present day. Then, 
the books of the first class consisted of the American Pre- 
ceptor, a small edition of a dictionary, a very diminutive 
grammar, called young ladies' accidents, and a little paper 
geographical catechism, containing about twenty-five pages. 
The contents of the latter I can repeat at the present time, 
nearly word for word. 

We afterwards had an abridged history of England, and 
a new grammer by Peter Cochran, but notwithstanding the 
apparent scarcity of school books at this period, some of the 
most active and intelligent merchants of Boston, New York, 
New Orleans, and in most of the seaports of the United 
States, had no other school education than what they received 
at the Boston public school. 

There are also those who are now enjoying, and those who 
have filled high and responsible positions, and one of the 
most popular of our modern poets, (whose poetic talents are 
known throughout Europe,) who were classmates with me, 
and I believe never attended any other school. 

Then there were not half so many attractions to lure the 
youthful mind as at the present time ; the reading was more 
of an instructive character, than much that falls into the 
hands of young persons now. Although it is certain, that 

B 



18 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the numerous associations, composed entirely of young men, 
such as Lyceums, Public Libraries, Scientific Lectures, and a 
host of moral and intellectual institutions, cannot fail of 
producing men of superior attainments. 

My comparison was only intended to show that close ap- 
plication to anything, no matter what the difficulties or de- 
ficiencies may be, will, with few exceptions, come out success- 
fully. At the early time of which I am speaking of my 
own education, the discipline and punishments were severe, 
and in some cases cruel, but visited only on those who were 
delinquent in their studies, or unruly in their conduct. Mr. 
Haskell, who was usher, when I first joined the school, was 
removed and made the principal of another. 

He was succeeded by a tall, raw boned, sallow looking, 
New Hampshire man, named Peter Cochran, author of the 
new grammar. His very appearance struck a terror into 
those who were to be under his charge, of which, unfortu- 
nately, I was one. On his first appearance and after the 
school had been called to order, he took a position near his 
desk, and when all was silent, and every eye fixed on him, 
he gave a glance round with his fierce, snaky eyes and com- 
menced his inaugural. "Boys, if you are attentive to your 
studies it will be well, but if not, I shall be very severe with 
you, be seated." He provided himself with a hugh rattan full 
four feet long ; he then measured off two lines upon the 
floor, parallel with the wainscoting, one about two feet, and 
the other about thirty inches, this was intended as an inquisi- 
torial punishment for those who were inattentive to their 
studies. 

The application was as follows : the delinquent, if a tall 
boy, was made to stand with his right foot on the thirty inch 
line having the wall on his right, he then raises his right 
arm, and with open hand falls against the wall, thus form-» 
ing an acute angle 4 , his body the hypothenuse, the floor a 
base, and the wall a perpendicular ; in this painful position 
he must stand during the pleasure of the inquisitor. A 
sharp lookout was kept, that he did not reduce the length 
of the base, if lie did, he had a rap on the legs with the big 
rattan. The two-feet-line, was for smaller boys ; I had the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 19 

painful pleasure of forming this trigonometrical figure 
several times, but much rather preferred the incipient dem- 
onstration of two parallel lines, that is, if my body was to 
form any part of a geometrical figure. Another mode of 
punishment, as a sort of change, was to hold out a whole, 
or half brick, at arms length, during the pleasure of this 
modern Nero — this, I also tried and should prefer carrying 
the brick in my hat, than having to hold it in this most 
painful manner. The career of this fellow was short. His 
cruelties were disallowed by the head master, and he was 
discharged. I afterwards heard of a Cochran that was 
sentenced to the State Prison, in Maine. 1 wonder if it was 
this fellow ? He was succeeded by another tall, gaunt- 
looking creature, who was truly the mathematical demon- 
stration of a straight line " length without breadth." He 
was from New Hampshire also, and it might well be said 
that he stepped into Cochran's shoes. He had the same rattan, 
but was not allowed to continue Cochran's tortures. He was 
noway backward with his rattan, as my head and shoulders 
could well testify. He seemed to take a peculiar pleasure in 
flogging me : whether he thought there was a balance due 
me from Cochran, and the account had been transferred to 
him for settlement, I cannot say ; for hardly a day passed 
that 1 did not get a rap and not for negligence either, for I 
always had my lesson and was as far ahead as any boy in 
the class. 

One day, one of the largest boys in the lower division, for 
some misdemeanor was severely punished, he watched his 
opportunity and ran out of school. He soon returned with 
his father, a stout, red-faced man, armed with a large cane, 
And when Pierce and his father had entered the door "where 
is the fellow ?" cried old Pierce, then walking up to Bradley 
with his cane uplifted, the latter, pale as ashes, stood still. 
Immediately I sprung out of my seat, the other boys follow- 
ing ; we formed a dense ring around him, thus warding off 
old Pierce. 

The head master now interfered, when the old man and 
his son retired peaceably from the school. After this a|Fair 
I observed a marked change in Bradley towards me, very 



20 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

much in my favor ; he never struck me again, and once he 
deigned to greet me with a smile. 

Notwithstanding the severity of our treatment I continued 
to improve and was placed in the first class under charge of 
Dr. Bullard. Soon after my promotion to the first class, 
Bradley was dismissed, and was succeeded by Mr. Shaw (the 
present Judge Shaw) and so different was his conduct^ that 
there was not a boy but loved him. He was mild, amiable, 
and energetic, and very seldom resorted to punishment. I 
became a medal scholar and progressed in my studies. But 
an unpleasant affair occurred which caused me to leave 
school nearly a year before the usual time. The particulars 
are briefly, as follows : 

A boy of a highly respectable family, and one of my class- 
mates, wishing to have some fun, put a dead rat in the 
master's desk, unseen by any one. After the school had 
commenced, the master lifted the lid to get his rattan, and, 
as soon as he saw the rat he fixed his eye on me ; and I was 
immediately called out and ordered to remove it. I could 
not avoid laughing, while I assured him I knew nothing 
about it. He grew furious ; took me by the collar and drew 
me towards the desk, and ordered me again to take the rat 
out ; he was in a violent passion. I however took the tongs 
from the fireplace, and held the rat up by the tail, which 
caused the boys to laugh ; threw it out of the window and 
was going to my seat, when he clenched me again by the 
back of the neck and commenced whaling me with his rat- 
tan. I felt that I was unjustly whipped, and would not 
stand it. So I clenched him, and sung out " murder" at the 
top of my voice. The whole school was now in an uproar, I 
had him fast by the legs ; he was unable to strike me again, 
so we scrabbled together a few minutes, when I let go my 
hold. He was so exhausted that he fairly panted for breath. 
The boy° for whose crime I was receiving the punishment, 
had not magnanimity enough to rise and own the deed ; 
but calmly looked on and saw me receive his punishment. 

•Since dead, and for many years held a responsible situation under the 
St afe Government, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 21 

At the closing of the school as I was going from my seat, 
Bullard ordered me to stop, and he then forbade me enter- 
ing the school-room again. I just replied, that he need not 
he troubled about that, for I never intended to come again, 
neither did I wish ever to have anything more to do with 
him, adding : you have whipped me for the act of another, 
who was too cowardly to own it, and I think I can point him 
out. But remember Sir, that this affair remains between 
you and I to be adjusted at another time. As 1 was passing 
down the centre aisle of the school-room, the usher met me, 
saying, " I wish you to remain a few minutes after the 
school has retired," and requested me to step into his desk. 
Accordingly, after all had gone out, he very affectionately 
expressed his regret at what had happened. I assured him 
of my innocence of the affair, which he fully believed, shook 
me by the hand and wished me well. I went immediately 
home and acquainted the family with what had occurred, 
showed them the scars upon my legs made by the rattan. All 
seemed much affected on account of my undeserved punish- 
ment, and also much indignation towards the boy who was 
the cause of it. I continued my studies at home and prob- 
ably lost nothing by leaving school. I regretted this affair 
very much, and felt it more sensibly than I should have 
done had it occurred a few months previous, as the following 
story will show. Unfortunately for me on my return from 
New York, I became associated with several very bad boys, 
although they belonged to respectable families, and were 
smart, intelligent lads, yet their habits were very bad ; 
using much profane language, and were very fond of boxing, 
and on some occasions absenting themselves from school. 
All these bad habits I imbibed and became one of them. My 
language at times was awfully profane, and I was frequently 
engaged in a fight ; sometimes I got well whipped and then 
again have flogged boys much larger than myself. Our 
gang, as we were called, were notorious for all kinds of mis- 
chief, not of thieving, however, or of doing any one an 
injury, but of playing tricks on boys, and of doing many 
things for sport that could be called by no other name than 



1 



22 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

mischief. We often got into difficulties, some of which were 
of a serious character. 

At this time there existed a feud between a class of boys 
denominated the aristocracy, and boys who did not come un- 
der this category, and between these two classes there was 
little association. 

One day four of us went over to the bottom of the Com- 
mon to have a swim ; the water then came up to the foot of 
the knoll west of the great tree, and by wading out twenty 
yards, was deep enough for bathing. We selected a clean 
spot, where we undressed, and had just thrown off our 
clothes, when four of the above described chaps came down 
also for a bath. They commenced with their feet, kicking 
our clothes aside to make room for themselves. We demand- 
ed of them what right they had to meddle with our clothing. 
One of them, in a very haughty manner, replied, " Inferiors 
should move for their superiors." " Do you hear that ?" says 
one of our party. There were four of us and four of them, 
but they were much the stoutest boys. However, we consult- 
ed the matter a few minutes, and determined to fight them. 
We were all undressed, and in a good trim for a battle. I 
was to commence by attacking the largest, who was already 
in the water. I wa*ded out and clinched him, but soon found 
lie was too many guns for me ; his arms were so much long- 
er than mine that I could hardly get a chance to hit him. 
The others sung out for quarters. They then apologized for 
the insult, and we were ever after good and recognizable 
friends. Another of these gentry, a fellow older and much 
heavier than myself, grossly insulted me in the school yard 
one day, which ended in a fight. I whipped him in good 
fashion, and to his perfect satisfaction. He belonged to what 
was then called one of the first families in Boston, and was 
afterwards a talented and distinguished lawyer. His father 
was one cf our most prominent statesmen, and as I have be- 
fore observed, the sons of these rich men assumed a sort of 
superiority over those of the lower and middling classes ; 
and scarcely would they ever mingle with them in play. 

This foolish pride was often punished, and many a spruce 
young gentleman had to walk home with a black eye or a 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 23 

damaged face, and on almost every occasion they commenced 
the difficulty themselves, by assuming haughty airs, and try- 
ing to exercise a superiority over those who were not so well 
dressed. 

One day a party of us were engaged in a game of cricket 
on the Common, and it so happened that there were three of 
these upper class on one side, and we wanted one more to 
make even sides, so we took in a first rate hoy, who was an 
excellent scholar and of good deportment, when one of the 
three just alluded to, threw down his bat, declaring he would 
not play if this boy was chosen ; for, said he, in a sneering 
manner, " look at his dress" Now his dress was tidy and 
clean, though the cloth probably was not so fine as his who 
objected to him. The boy felt hurt at the remark, but we 
insisted that he should play, and any one who objected to 
him might leave the ground. The game went on and 
we had a good time. This boy afterwards became a very 
wealthy and successful merchant in New Orleans. The 
reader may possibly suppose that the objection on the part of 
the rich boys to associate with those of the jDoorer class 
was, that they were vulgar and of low breeding. 

This however was not the case, for there were boys whose 
parents were poor and industrious, who were exemplary in 
their deportment, good scholars, and many of them to my 
knowledge became men of fortunes ; many have filled high 
and honorable positions in the navy, army, and in the gen- 
eral government. And I have lived to see some of those 
who were born with a silver spoon in their mouth, dragging 
along their lives in poverty and destitution. 

" Honor and shame from no condition rise ; 
Act well your part, there all the honor lies." 

I have spoken several times of resenting personal insults 
when a boy, but since I have become a man 1 have thought 
that it was far more magnanimous to pass by than to avenge 
them, although it often caused a hard struggle to do so. It 
is written of Bonaparte that while on the Island of Elba he 
declared to a friend that he never had resented a personal 



24 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

m 

insult. But a personal injury is quite another matter. He 
who injures me in either my property or reputation, may 
create a pang in the bosom of my family that may not be 
removed until the grave encloses them ; and he who does 
this must expect his recompense ; for the Almighty hath said, 
"Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord" 

Once more I came near losing my life in a very foolish 
manner. I had a large bow gun with a very strong bow, 
and an arrow fitted with a long sail needle projecting over 
three inches from the end. One of my companions out of 
mere sport, deliberately took up the gun and shot the arrow 
into my back, standing only about five or six yards from me. 
The needle entered just above the kidney, probably a half 
an inch, and it was with much difficulty that we pulled it 
out. The doctor pronounced it a miraculous escape. Had it 
entered the kidney, in all probability it would have caused 
my death. Thus was I spared again, and it was evident 
my time had not yet come. 

I had as a classmate an intimate acquaintance, a lad 
about my own age ; who was both amiable and exemplary, 
and was received as a member of Dr. Baldwin's (Baptist,) 
church, at the age of eleven years. He came to me one day 
in an affectionate manner, saying he wished to have some 
conversation with me, and commenced by asking if I ever 
thought of death and of the judgment, and if I thought I 
was prepared to die. To all of which I answered in the 
negative ; but immediately felt the weight of these impor- 
tant interrogatories. He then in the most friendly and 
sympathizing manner, alluded to the bad company I kept, 
and the profane language he so frequently heard from me. 
I was much affected, and thanked him for his kind reproof. 
He then invited me to go with him to an old barn where he 
was accustomed to go every day for secret prayer. I con- 
sented, and the next day went with him. He knelt, and 
desired me to kneel by his side, and then, in the most fer- 
vent manner, prayed that I might be led to see the error of 
my ways and to seek repentance and forgiveness through 
Jesus Christ. I also made an attempt to offer up a prayer 
myself. I now felt a determination to break off from my 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 25 

former associates, and also from my bad habits, embrace re- 
ligion and follow the precepts of the Bible. My kind and 
faithful friend whom I will now introduce to the reader was 
the Rev. James Colman, who died on his passage to India, 
whither he was going to join the Burman Missions. James 
continued faithful, evincing towards me a truly brotherly 
affection. 

I found it rather hard to disengage myself from my old 
associates, but was frank and open, telling them that 1 had 
seen my errors and was determined to forsake them. At this 
they sneeringly replied that as I had now turned Methodist, 
I had better go and preach. A good opportunity offered on 
the first Saturday of each month, for seeing the result of bad 
company and early vices. At the head of West street, and 
near to our writing school, right against the gate leading to 
the Mall, the public whipping post was erected ; (at that 
time there was no House of Correction,) the whipping com- 
menced at eleven o'clock, A. M., just about the time our 
school was dismissed. I have seen many a poor fellow 
stripped to the bare skin, and receive from twenty to one 
hundred lashes with the cat o' nine tails, the number depend- 
ing on the magnitude of the crime. One man who was 
sentenced to stand in the pillory for a fraud against an 
insurance company, made a confession of the many crimes 
lie had committed, attributing his vicious life to bad compa- 
ny in his boyhood. His confession was very affecting, and 
certainly could not fail of making a deep impression on 
many who heard him. I had been a reformed boy nearly 
three months, when the unpleasant school affair took place. 
My friend James understood the whole matter, and was well 
satisfied who the offender was, so my reputation did not suf- 
fer in his estimation. We continued our visits to the barn, 
and spent much of our leisure time together. I continued 
my studies at home, mingling no more with boys at play. 
I had access to a carpenter's shop, and was quite handy 
with tools. Much of my time was spent in making small 
articles for the neighbors, such as chests, benches and clothes 
horses, &c, which kept me well supplied with spending 
money. 



CHAPTER II. 



Determined to go to Sea, — Prospect of a voyage, — Severely injured 
and could not go, — Obtained another, — First attempt at cooking, — 
Severity of the Captain, — Arrival at Rotterdam, — Occurrence, — 
Sail for home, — Boarded by English Cruisers, — Severe gale on 
George's bank, —Captain intoxicated, — Captured and carried to Hali- 
fax, _ Insults, —Arrival of the English fleet, — Affair of the Chesa- 
peake—Whipping through the fleet,— And execution of the deserter,— 
Occurrences at Halifax, — Description of the Execution, — And 
previous behavior of Sam Jackson, — Execution on board the St. 
Mary's at Vera Cruz. 

For some years previous, and up to tins time, I had been 
much inclined to read voyages, and travels, which created 
a strong desire for going to sea. And as I was then about 
fourteen years of age, the usual time for boys to choose their 
future profession, was determined on going to sea, although 
my friends were much opposed to it at first. They at length 
yielded to what they saw was my fixed determination. 

I was acquainted with a Mr. Wilson, who was also inti- 
mate in our family, he was then mate of the brig Sally be- 
longing to Nehcmiah Parsons, Esq. She was then under 
repairs receiving new rigging, &c, and when ready for sea 
was bound to the Mediterranean. Mr. Wilson procured a 
chance for me as cabin-boy. I went on board and was set 
at work with the riggers. On the third day after I had 
joined her, a man in the maintop having a seven pound 
maul in his hand, driving the eye of a shroud down over the 
mast head, let the maul slip while making a blow with it, 
his hand being greasy, it came down and struck on the top 
of my head, knocking me senseless for a few moments. 
They took me up, dressed the wound and carried me home. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 27 

This accident prevented me from going the voyage in 
her. But when I had recovered from the wound I com- 
menced again searching for a voyage. It was not an 
easy matter then for a hoy to get a voyage, as most 
shipmasters had their apprentices ; and besides, it was 
not then as it is now with respect to ships ; then, there 
were comparatively few to what we see now. Scarcely could 
a ship be found over three hundred tons, and it was also 
very rare to see a coppered vessel. At length after much 
searching obtained a chance on board a small barque of 
one hundred and sixty tons, bound to Rotterdam in Holland. 
When I went on board to enquire for a situation I was 
directed to the Skipper, who was seated on a hen-coop on 
the quarter-deck ; he looked at me rather quzziingly when 
I asked him if he wanted a boy, and then began to enquire 
if I was not some runaway, and whether my parents were 
willing that I should go to sea, and various other questions 
of this sort which led me to think he had taken a nipper. 
I soon satisfied him who I was and invited him up to my 
grandfather's house. As all my uncles were at sea, had 
no one to arrange for me. 

It was settled, however, that I was to go this voyage, and 
if I still persisted in going to sea then, he was to take me 
as an apprentice. The captain took me to a sailor's clothing 
store and rigged me out in a sailor's dress, with which I was 
much pleased. I now went on board for duty and my master 
informed me that he always made his boys cook on their first 
voyage. So my first business was to go into the galley and 
put everything to rights in the cooking department. He at 
the same time told me that in the mate's state-room there 
was a beef bone hanging up, with which I must make some 
soup for the people's dinner. 

The crew being shipped were now to live on board. So 
I took the bone on deck and with an axe smashed it up, 
and threw it into the copper. Now I was in a quandary 
what kind of water to use for the soup, having the impression 
that sailors made soup with salt water. I "did not like to 
ask for information, and as the fresh water pump was some 
distance up the wharf I decided on using salt water draw- 



28 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

ing it from along-side. There were plenty of vegetables 
of which 1 was no way sparing, but 1 don't think that a 
lady with a delicate stomach, on seeing my modus opperandi 
of preparing this savory dish, would have eaten much of 
it ; 1 forgot to rinse the potatoes and turnips before put- 
ting them in, and washing the beef bone slipped my mind 
also, for as in the case of the salt water, some how or 
other I got the impression that sailors must eat dirt any- 
how. 

I felt some small degree of uncertainty about the success 
of my first attempt at soup making, neither did I venture to 
say anything about the salt water ; but thought I would 
leave the event as the proof of the soup would be in the 
eating. 

At 12 o'clock the mate came to the galley to know if din- 
ner was ready. I told him it had been boiling three hours, 
and I thought it was done. " Well, give the men their din- 
ner, then go and set the table in the cabin." In the 
meantime he took a quid about the size of a musket cart- 
ridge from his mouth, and holding it in his left hand took 
out°a ladle full of the boiling beverage, and after blowing 
and sipping a few minutes, turned round to me saying, " you 
young dog, you have put in too much salt, but it's good soup 
though, don't put in so much next time." " No sir." 

So I came to the conclusion that soup should be made 
with fresh water, although I heard no grumbling from the 
sailors. 

Our cargo being on board and everything ready for sea 
we sailed on the hrst of June, 1807, for Rotterdam. The next 
day I was quite sea-siek and could hardly crawl to the cam- 
boose house. I began to have some suspicion that our cap- 
tain was what old sailors call a " horse," and I also dis- 
covered that it was his intention to be very severe on me, for 
I was so sick that I could hardly hold up my head, he sent 
me to look for what he called a creeper, a cooking utensil 
generally called a spider. 

I hail never seen it among the galley fixings ; yet in a 
tyrannical manner he ordered me to find it. 

I began to wish myself back again, for when drunk, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 29 

which was nearly half the time, he would grin and show 
his teeth like a monkey, threatening to flog me declar- 
ing it was the only method of making a sinart man of a 
boy. 

In a few days my sea-sickness had disappeared, and I was 
all right again. 

The ship's bill of fare, the following of which is a true 
copy, was stuck up in the cabin, and from the orthography of 
the bill, it will seem to be evident, that the schoolmaster 
was not on board. 

Sundy — bef and pork and poclins and peters. 

Mondy — bef and pork and peters. 

Tnsdy — pork and bens. 

Wensdy — salt fish peters and pork fat. 

Thusdy — bef and pork and podins. 

Fridy — pork and bens. 

Saterdy — salt fish peters and pork fat. 

The first line of this remarkable document would read 
thus, in the English language : 

Sundays — Beef, Pork, Puddings, and Potatoes. 

Besides my duty as cook, cabin-boy, and steward, I had to 
loose and furl the royals, and as we had but one top-mast 
studdingsail, and but one boom, it devolved on me to shift 
the latter from side to side as occasion required, which was 
no easy job when she was rolling heavy, a trick she was well 
accustomed to. In tacking ship it was my duty to let 
go the fore-sheet, and shift over the middle stay-sail-sheet. 
One day when we had tacked, and after I had let go the 
fore-sheet, I jumped below to secure a can of molasses that I 
had just drawn ; I was not below more than half a minute, 
the captain saw me go down and came to the hatchway with 
the end of the top-sail buntling in his hand, waiting for me 
to come up, and as soon as my head was above deck he com- 
menced, and I am sure 1 shall never forget that rope's endr 
ing. 

It may almost be set down as a proverb, and I have seen 
it verified in my commerce with men, that we as often get 
punished for doing our duty as for neglecting it. 

My good captain seemed to labor under the impression 



30 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

that flogging was a very necessary and indispensable branch 
of discipline in my education for a sailor. And whether he 
considered that the use of a rope's end was a vulgar mode 
of punishment, and wishing to treat me with some degree of 
refinement, 1 cannot say, for he had a nice cat o' nine tails 
made by one of the seamen, nicely pointed and grafted, and 
pretty enough to hang up in a museum ; the elaborate finish 
of this cat the skipper looked upon as the profoundest test of 
skill in seamanship. After taking a stiff glass of grog, he 
called me into the cabin, and with his usual monkey grin, 
held out this pretty plaything, and commenced his address : 

" You see this, donH you?" 

"Yes, sir." 

" Well, when you first come aboard, I liked your looks, but 
hvyitfd I should have a job to cook you. Look out now" 

He then hung it up against his state-room door, and told 
me to be off. He never had the pleasure, however, of using 
his man-maker upon my back, for that night it disappeared, 
and was never seen afterwards ; and what was very singular, 
he did not inquire for it. But I rather suspected that he 
had some idea where it went. 

We had been out fortv-two or three davs, and were draw- 
ing nigh to our port of destination, and not once was I found 
to be remiss in mv duty. I was not allowed a moment of 
time, even to mend my clothes. 

Our cargo was coffee, and every night while taking it in, 
the sweepings of the deck, in which was some considerable 
quantity of coffee, were placed in barrels, and kept for ship 
use, and when my cooking was done for the day, 1 had this 
coffee to pick, and 1 have often shut myself up in the cam- 
hoo.se, in order that 1 might have an opportunity to read a 
chapter in my Bible. 

Thin <>s now began to be more favorable. I got through 
with my various duties without difficulty, although a sailor 
knocked me into the lee scuppers on: 1 day for refusing to 
rinse out his tin pot. 1 picked myself up, and had not 
the mate interfered, 1 think it doubtful whether he would ever 
have struck another. 

1 am sorry to acknowledge it, but to this day I find it hard 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 81 

to forgive an injury. I know it is unchristianlike, and con- 
trary to the precepts of the religion of Christ, and earnestly 
hope that God will give me grace to overcome it. 

And while I am now writing, (1856) my mind involunta- 
rily glances over the past, when a recollection of the wrongs 
and impositions that I have suffered, flits before me, I find 
it necessary to lay down my pen until the perturbation 
ceases. 

We arrived at Helveot-sluys in forty-four days from Bos- 
ton ; took a pilot and proceeded up the river, stopping at 
Dart, Scravendale and Schiedam, and then to Rotterdam, 
hauling in to Glasshaven to discharge our caro-o. 

While lying at Rotterdam our captain lived on shore, 
which gave me rather more latitude than if he had been on 
board. I frequently went on shore with the sailors in the 
evening, and as the general resort of sailors are bad houses, 
and their habits tending to drunkenness, my accompanying 
them was of no benefit to my morals, for on one occasion they 
got me quite intoxicated on anise seed, which made me very 
sick all next day. 

I did not go on shore again, but spent my time in reading, 
after my work was done. 

There was now a ceneral armistice throughout the conti- 
nent of Europe. Joseph Bonaparte was king of Holland. 

After receiving our homeward cargo, we sailed for Boston. 

American vessels were at this time subject to much annoy- 
ance from English and French cruisers, but more particularly 
from the former, as they were very abusive to our flag, fre- 
quently bringing vessels to, insulting the captains, and in 
many instances impressing the seamen. 

The French had issued the Berlin and Milan decrees, by 
which all vessels, of whatever nation, having enemy's goods 
on board, were considered as lawful prizes, and dealt with 
accordingly. 

The English, on the other hand, had their orders in coun- 
cil, which also confiscated all vessels having enemy's property 
on board. American masters, in foreign ports, were often 
insulted by British officers, and I recollect a laughable inci- 
dent that occurred in Gibraltar, and was well acquainted 



32 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

with the captain who was the hero of the story, and telk it 
so humorously. His name was Brock, hut usually pronounced 
Brick. 

One day, while at the Crown and Anchor hotel, in compa- 
ny with several American shipmasters, who were all seated 
in the principal room, enjoying themselves over a hottle of 
wine, there came in some British naval officers, who, rinding 
the table occupied, went out grumbling, and from one of 
them was heard the epithet, " Yankees." 

" Did you hear that ?" says Breck, to the others. They all 
heard it, and Breck jumped up, and following the officers in- 
into the hall, inquired which of the gentlemen it was that 
made use of that insulting lanonmo;e, and to whom it was 
addressed. 

The British officer, who by the way was a captain in the 
navy, looking rather indignantly on Breck, who was rather 
short, though very stout, while the Englishman was a tall, 
raw-boned fellow, replied : " To you, if you take it up." 

Breck immediately threw off his coat, put his fist in the 
captain's face, and told him to defend himself. 

By this time a number of spectators had gathered around, 
and the noble Englishman finding himself in rather an 
awkward position, replied that he was not going to make a 
blackguard of himself. 

" My name," said he, " is Clay, of His Majesty's brig 
Hanger, and I will give you any satisfaction you wish, in a 
gentlemanly manner." 

" Well," says Breck, with his fist still clenched, " if your 
name is Clay, my name is Brick, and Fm already baked, 
and I want satisfaction now." 

This created such a roar of laughter all around, that the 
by-standers as well as the British officer, insisted on settling 
it on the spot ov< r as much champagne as all could drink, 
and the Englishman insisted on paying the bill. Thus end- 
ed this humorous affair. 

We were boarded several times in the North Sea. and also 
in the English Channel, and were each time politely treated. 
Our crew were examined, and as all had protections but two 
we had no difficulty witli the British officers, excepting once; 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 33 

then the boarding officer was very impudent, speaking very 
seurribii$bj of American protections. This, however, we took 
no notice of, and the fellow went off on board his frigate. 

With respect to the two men who had no protections, in 
order to save them from impressment, (as they were actually 
deserters from a British man-of-war,) they were entered in 
the ship's log-book, as having fallen from the maintop-sail 
yard while reefing ; and when a man-of-war hove in sight, 
they were both snugly stowed away, and as we were appar- 
ently weak-handed, no attempt was made to impress any of 
the rest. 

The captain had now materially relaxed his rigid conduct 
towards me. I had picked all the coffee, and had plenty of 
leisure time ; our passage homeward was rather rough. 
On George's bank, we encountered a severe gale ; it com- 
menced in the morning, and by noon it blew furiously, and 
continued to increase until the following midnight. Our 
good skipper during this gale was sewed up below ; at one 
time, during the night, the mate came down and tried to get 
the captain up, as we were fast drifting on to the shoal, 
and by the mate's calculations were very near it ; but all he 
could get was a grunt ; indeed, it was a fearful gale, but we 
rode it out nicely ; the next day was fine and clear, and the 
old man came on deck looking quite sheepish. 

On that same afternoon while we were all busy in geting 
things to rights and preparing for bending cables, a British 
Cruiser hove in sight, and was soon upon us. She be- 
longed to the Halifax Station, and was cruising in Boston 
bay for vessels coming from Europe ; as in many cases, they 
were found to have prohibited goods on board. 

After detaining us two hours, and closely examining our 
papers, they declared us a prize to his Brittanic Majesty; — 
accordingly we were ordered to get our traps up, and be all 
ready to go on board. the man-of-war, when her boat re- 
turned with the prize crew. 

The captain was permitted to remain on board the barque. 
On the return of the man-of-war-boat with the prize master 
and crew, we were all bundled into the boat and put on 
board the Cruiser. On getting on board we were ordered 



34 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

oil the quarter-deck, until disposed of. The two unfortu- 
nate fellows, who were lost off the maintop-sail yard, were 
immediately seized as deserters, hut hy entering again noth- 
ing more was said about their desertion. 

I saw one of these same fellows a year afterwards in Bos- 
ton ; he had deserted again, and by a perilous adventure 
had succeeded in reaching Portland, and then came to Bos- 
ton. 

Soon after our arrival on board the man-of-war, the cap- 
tain ordered the prize master, who was then on board the 
barque, to till away for Halifax, while the Englishman con- 
tinued on her cruise. 

We were not confined, but put into watches for duty. 

The barque having filled away, ran down under the man- 
of-war's stern, and when within talking distance, my captain 
very earnestly requested of the English commander that he 
might have his boy returned to him. I stood near him, and 
said I did not wish to go back. " Never fear my lad, you 
are not going," said he, and made no reply to the captain's 
request ; he ordered the prize master to strip the prize im- 
mediately on his arrival at Halifax. We then squared away, 
standing S. E., and the barque proceeded on her course for 
Halifax. 

On this first night I came near making a hole in the water. 
I was sent out on the foreroyal-yard, to stop a small portion 
of the sail that had got loose, and while out on the lee-yard 
arm, the foot rope was so long, that it brought my chin against 
the yard, and 1 could not have got into the bunt again, had 
it not been that a tall Canadian had just come up, it being 
his lookout at the mast head ; he got hold of my arm and 
assisted me in: otherwise, in all probability, I must have 
let go. 

We con( i nued our cruise along the Southern coast, and 
spoke a ship from Norfolk, bound to Cadiz; we next spoke a 
schooner from Thomaston, bound to Barbadoes, with lime, 
potatoes and onions. The captain was asked ir' he would bring 
on board some of his vegetables, which lie did, and for which 
he was well paid. We requested the boat's crew to report us as 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 35 

taken, on their arrival in the XL S., which they promised to 
do ; we also gave them our names. 

We now stood to the eastward a few clays, and not falling 
in with anything, squared away for Halifax, and arrived 
there about ten days after the arrival of the Barque, encoun- 
tering a smart gale the night before. 

As soon as we appeared off the harbor, our captain, who 
was permitted to visit the barque when he pleased, as she 
was in charge of the admiralty officers, went on board 
and hoisted the American ensign; this being contrary to 
the common usage of prizes, an officer was immediately de- 
spatched from the guard-ship, with a most indecent message 

to the captain, ordering him to haul down that 

yankee flag. He at first positively refused claiming the 
right, as an American, to show his colors, but he was over- 
powered and obliged to submit. 

The Barque's sails were unbent, and much of the running 
rigging unrove ; the crew were sent ashore from the man-of- 
war, but I was sent on board the Barque, to wait on , the 
king's officers, as they were called ; there were two of them, 
an Irishman and a blue-nose, and both of them regular sots ; 
they had access to the gin, of which they drank freely, and 
were often drunk. 

Prizes came in every day, although on our arrival, there 
was but one there. She was a long, rakish, Baltimore clip- 
per, taken by the Cleopatra frigate. The prize was from 
Vera Cruz, with a large amount of specie on board, bound 
to Baltimore, and under what pretext she was taken I could 
not learn. 

In three weeks from our arrival, there were twenty-five 
American vessels sent in as prizes. A large portion of the 
men belonging to these prizes were impressed and claimed 
as British subjects, and no doubt many of them were. 

The people of Halifax, and more particularly, the naval 
officers, seemed to have a very contemptible opinion of 
American sailors. Calling them grass combers, lubberly 
fishermen, and log haulers, saying also, that were it not for 
English sailors, our ships could not pursue their voyages. 



36 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

On this subject I shall have something to say at another 
time. 

Our trial was to commence on the thirtieth day from the 
libel ; but by compromise, our captain was to pay a certain 
sum, which, by so doing, Ave could leave Halifax as soon as 
we could get ready ; but if we stood trial, should, in all 
probability, be detained through the winter. And in order 
to meet this proposition, we were permitted to land, and sell 
a quantity of gin free from duty. Accordingly, we hauled 
into the wharf for this purpose, also to get the Barque ready 
for sea. 

On the day that we hauled in, the English fleet arrived 
from Hampton-roads — after the fracas with the U. S. Frig- 
ate Chesapeake. And that night, such was the inveterate 
hatred towards Americans, the rabble came down the wharf 
along-side the barque, insulting us, by throwing stones and 
brickbats upon our deck. We of course were obliged to sub- 
mit to this patriotic indignity. 

A particular and correct account of the Chesapeake affair, 
may be found in the books treating upon the origin of the 
late war with England. But as it may be, that the reader 
cannot obtain such a book, I will briefly relate it, according 
to the best of my remembrance. 

The British fleet consisted of the Leopard, 50, Capt. 
Humphrey s,Frigates, Jason, Melampus, and Chichester. Hal- 
ifax and Squirrel, sloops of War. This fleet, and the U. S. 
frigate Cheaspeake lay together in Hampton-roads. The 
Chesapeake commanded by Com. Barron, was destined for the 
Mediterranean, to join the American fleet off Tripoli. 
Three men from one of the English boats, deserted while at 
Norfolk, and to obtain money for a frolic, shipped at the U. 
S. rendezvous under assumed nam 

The recruiting officer afterwards positively declared] that 
when he shipped these men, lie did not know that they were 
English deserters; for if he had known it he should not 
have received them. And even after they had entered, if 
a proper application had been made to him they would 
have boon released; and if necessary, he would have taken 
the loss of the advance money upon himself. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 37 

It appeared that one of the deserters, Jenkiu Ratford, 
grossly insulted one of his officers in the street at Norfolk, 
and 1 think it was reported that he struck the officer. All 
three were sent on hoard the Chesapeake, after their liberty 
had expired. 

As soon as Captain Humphreys had received official infor- 
mation that these men were on board the Chesapeake, he 
addressed a note to Commodore Barron, requesting that the 
men might be returned to their ship. To this request Com- 
modore Barron would not consent, and on the following 
morning got his ship under way and when abreast of the 
Leopard, the latter gave her the contents of one division 
from the main deck, and every gun was shotted. 

As the Chesapeake was not in a condition to fight, her 
cables having been hauled out of the tiers and strung along 
on the main deck guns, they were taken up to make room 
for a quantity of provisions intended for the fleet in the 
Mediterranean, and had not yet been put below. Under 
these circumstances, and to prevent bloodshed, Barron order- 
ed the colors to be struck, at which the firing ceased. A 
boat came immediately from the Leopard to the Chesapeake 
in which was her first lieutenant, with a note from Captain 
Humphreys, sincerely regretting the course he felt himself 
under the necessity of pursuing in order to recover his 
men. 

The lieutenant anxiously inquired if there had been any 
one hurt, and appeared much pleased to learn that so little 
damage had been done, and then informed Commodore 
Barron that Captain Humphreys still insisted upon having 
his men, and that he had received orders not to return 
without them. 

Commodore Barron, to avoid further trouble, mustered his 
crew, the men were picked out and taken on board the Leop- 
ard, then the British fleet unmoored and went to sea, bound 
to Halifax. 

Commodore Barron was tried by a Court-martial and 
found guilty of gross mismanagement in not having his 
ship ready for action. And also for hauling his colors 
down, was suspended from the U. S. Naval service for a 



88 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

number of years, afterwards reinstated, and killed Commo- 
dore Decatur in a duel. 

We now return to Halifax again. 

" Down with the Yankees \" was the prevailing cry now 
among men and boys. The fact of making a Yankee frig- 
ate haul her colors down, and having her crew mustered by 
a British lieutenant, and three deserters taken out, was 
a " consummation devoutly to be wished for." 

The independence of the U. S. was now to be forever an- 
nihilated. The American Stars and Stripes would soon be 
hanging among the trophies of St. Pauls, and the Yankee 
rebels would ere long be made to receive their old shackles 
again. This was the bombastic grog-shop talk of Halifax. 

A gang of rowdy boys attacked me one morning on my 
return from market, and were determined to whip me 
because I was a Yankee. So I laid down my market 
basket and looking them in the face, said, "whip away 
my good fellows, I suppose you want another Chesapeake vic- 
tory, there are plenty of you to flog one, only don't steed my 
meaty They went oft', doing nothing more than giving 
me a few hearty curses. 

A Court-martial was immediately convened on board the 
Chichester, for the trial of the three deserters. The result of 
which was, that Jenkin Ratford was to be hanged at the 
yard-arm, and the other two to be whipped through the 
fleet. 

As we lay near the ships of war I had a good opportunity 
of seeing both sentences carried into execution, those who 
were to be whipped were to receive 500 lashes each. 

Kind reader, probably you have never seen a punishment 
of. this kind inflicted, and 1 hope you never will. We read 
with horror, accounts that have come to us from the inquisi- 
tions of Europe. Our blood has fairly chilled in our veins, 
when we have read of the rack, and of being broken on the 
wheel, and the process of roasting over a slow lire. All this 
has been done through ignorance and superstition, and in 
some inquisitorial dungeon, as though the dark hellish scenes 
were too dreadful for the sun to look upon! But whipping a 
man through the fleet throws that entirely in the shade; for 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 41 

ship again, placed under the doctor's charge until he gets 
strong enouoji to receive the balance. 

There have been cases however, where tiie victim has died 
under the punishment ; nevertheless, the number of lashes 
must be given upon the back of the corpse ! This, an old 
English man-of-wars-man assured me he had seen. 

As soon as the boat containing the prisoner has arrived 
along-side the admiral's ship, all hands are called to witness 
punishment, which they do by manning the rigging and 
yards. The first lieutenant then goes down into the boat, 
and reads the sentence of the Court-marshal, also that clause 
in the articles of war relating to desertion ; during the time 
of this reading, every head is uncovered and a death-like 
stillness prevails. 

Previously, the boatswain of each ship has been directed to 
have his cats, (cat-o-nine tails) in readiness. The cat, is a 
whip, with a short handle about fourteen inches long, hand- 
somely covered with cloth, to the end of which are nine 
pieces of small cord about the size of cod line, and about a 
yard long ; at the end of each line are two or three knots, 
and every stroke with this whip, cuts through the skin quite 
into the flesh, and the boatswain's mate, who applies it, is 
commonlv an athletic fellow, and is obliged to give his ut- 
most strength at every blow, and generally a fresh boatswain's 
mate takes the cat at the end of each dozen. 

As soon as the reading is over, the lieutenant gives a nod 
to the master-at-arms, who removes the shirt from the back 
of the prisoner ; the boatswain's mate is then ordered to 
commence ; and at the first blow, the master-at-arms, counts 
audibly, one, and so on, until the designated number is com- 
pleted. 

And if the smallest portion of pity is manifested by the 
boatswain's mate in slacking his hand in the least perceptible 
manner, he is sternly told, " Boatswain's mate, do your duty, 
Sir." At the first three or four blows the cries and entreaties 
of the poor wretch are heart-rending, crying out, God 
Almighty, save me! Jesus Christ, have mercy upon me! 
Many a time have I heard these piercing cries while the 
flesh upon the back was cut into strips. 



42 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

The doctor lias hold of his pulse and determines the con- 
dition for endurance. If the poor fellow faints, which is 
often the case, some brandy or cold water is given him, by 
means of which he is soon revived. 

This is the mode of punishment in the navy ; or rather it 
was until a few years since, when by the humane remonstrances 
of the people, punishment with the cat was abolished. These 
two men on whom this dreadful sentence was inflicted were 
carried to the Hospital in a state of insensibility. Although 
I was not near enough to see their backs mvself, I was told 
by a man who had a good opportunity of seeing them, that 
they were a mass of coagulated blood from the shoulders to 
the loins, as above the former and below the latter a blow 
must not be struck. 

They were carried from the boat to the Hospital on a sort 
of litter. Before we left Halifax I was told that one of 
them was able to sit up a few hours each day and pick 
oakum. 

I refrain from saying anything more on this painful sub- 
ject at present, as in the course of my narrative I shall 
have occasion to mention acts of cruelty in our own navy 
that would put a savage to the blush. 

Jenkin Ratford, one of the three deserters, who was 
sentenced to be hanged, was strung up to the foreyard-arm 
of the Jason, frigate, on the Monday morning subsequent to 
the whipping through the fleet. He was run up amid the 
smoke of the bow gun, over which the platform was erected. 
His crime, though it was adjudged the most flagrant, yet 
his punishment was comparatively nothing as viewed with 
that of the others ; for the explosion of the gun instantly 
kills the victim and his death is easy. 

As the reader may never have seen an execution on 
board a man-of-war, I will describe this melancholy scene 
by narrating the execution of Sam Jackson, a seaman, on 
board the U. S. Ship St. Mary's in the harbor of Vera Cruz, 
Sept. 17, 18-10. The account is given by the Rev. Fitch W. 
Taylor, Chaplain in the U. S. Navy, and which I here tran- 
scribe. 

Jackson while in a state of intoxication had struck an 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 43 

officer, the penalty for which is death, or some other punish- 
ment which a court-martial shall adjudge. He was found 
guilty, and the following sentence passed upon him, viz : that 
Samuel Jackson, seaman, of the U. S. Navy, he executed 
at such time and place as the commander-in-chief should di- 
rect ; and that these proceedings, findings, and sentence 
having been approved by the commander-in chief, therefore, 
the commander-in-chief, directs that the said Samuel Jackson, 
seaman, be hanged by the neck, at the foreyard-arm of the 
U. S. ship, St. Mary's, on Thursday, 17th day of September, 
1846, between the hours of ten A. M., and meridian. 

The general order then continues. "In order that a 
suitable impression may be made on the minds of all persons 
in the squadron, and that there may be nothing to divert 
their thoughts from so melancholy a spectacle, and that they 
may be duly impressed with the awful consequences which 
must ever follow such violation of law, as were committed 
by this unhappy man, it is directed that no work be done 
on that day ; that when the preparatory signal is made for 
execution by the Cumberland, a yellow nag shall be dis- 
played from the foreroyal-mast head of the St. Mary's. The 
officers and crew of every vessel of the squadron present, 
shall be mustered on deck until the yellow flag on board the 
St. Mary's is hauled down. Commanders will direct that no 
boats nor persons be absent from the vessels of the squadron 
on that day, on any pretence whatever, without permission 
from the commander-in-chief." The fate of this unhappy 
man, it is hoped, will have a salutary influence, and impress 
the minds of all present, with the necessity of keeping a strict 
watch over their passions and tempers at all times and in all 
situations. The Rev. Chaplain goes on to state: "Yester- 
day, Sept. 13, being Sunday, I preached on board the St. 
Mary's. The preceding general order was read immediately 
after my leaving the ship for the Cumberland, having been 
received during the services, and to-day, Monday, I have 
visited the prisoner on board the St. Mary's ; he had requested 
to be removed from the general gaze of the crew, and have 
a place assigned him where he might collect his mind and 
endeavor to prepare to meet the sudden summons to appear 



42 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

The doctor Las hold of his pulse and determines the con- 
dition for endurance. If the poor fellow faints, which is 
often the ease, some brandy or cold water is given him, by 
means of which he is soon revived. 

This is the mode of punishment in the navy ; or rather it 
was until a few years since, when by the humane remonstrances 
of the people, punishment with the cat was abolished. These 
two men on whom this dreadful sentence was inflicted were 
carried to the Hospital in a state of insensibility. Although 
I was not near enough to see their backs myself, I was told 
by a man who had a good opportunity of seeing them, that 
thev were a mass of coagulated blood from the shoulders to 
the loins, as above the former and below the latter a blow 
must not be struck. 

They were carried from the boat to tho Hospital on a sort 
of litter. Before we left Halifax I was told that one of 
them was able to sit up a few hours each day and pick 
oakum. 

I refrain from saying anything more on this painful sub- 
ject at present, as in the course of my narrative I shall 
have occasion to mention acts of cruelty in our own navy 
that would put a savage to the blush. 

Jenkin Batford, one of the three deserters, who was 
sentenced to be hanged, was strung up to the foreyard-arm 
of the Jason, frigate, on the Monday morning subsequent to 
the whipping through the fleet. He was run up amid the 
smoke of the bow gun, over which the platform was erected. 
His crime, though it was adjudged the most flagrant, yet 
his punishment was comparatively nothing as viewed with 
that of the others ; for the explosion of the gun instantly 
kills the victim and his death is easy. 

As the reader may never have seen an execution on 
board a man-of-war, I will describe this melancholy scene 
by narrating the execution of Sam Jackson, a seaman, on 
board the U. S. Ship St. Mary's in the harbor of Vera Cruz, 
Sept. 17, 18-10. The account is given by the Rev. Fitch W. 
Taylor, Chaplain in the U. S. Navy, and which I here tran- 
scribe. 

Jackson while in a state of intoxication had struck an 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 43 

officer, the penalty for which is death, or some other punish- 
ment which a court-martial shall adjudge. He was found 
guilty, and the following sentence passed upon him, viz : that 
Samuel Jackson, seaman, of the U. S. Navy, be executed 
at such time and place as the commander-in-chief should di- 
rect ; and that these proceedings, findings, and sentence 
having been approved by the commander-in chief, therefore, 
the commander-in-chief, directs that the said Samuel Jackson, 
seaman, be hanged by the neck, at the foreyard-arm of the 
U. S. ship, St. Mary's, on Thursday, 17th day of September, 
1846, between the hours of ten A. M., and meridian. 

The general order then continues. "In order that a 
suitable impression may be made on the minds of all persons 
in the squadron, and that there may be nothing to divert 
their thoughts from so melancholy a spectacle, and that they 
may be duly impressed with the awful consequences which 
must ever follow such violation of law, as were committed 
by this unhappy man, it is directed that no work be done 
on that day ; that when the preparatory signal is made for 
execution by the Cumberland, a yellow nag shall be dis- 
played from the foreroyal-mast head of the St. Mary's. The 
officers and crew of every vessel of the squadron present, 
shall be mustered on deck until the yellow flag on board the 
St. Mary's is hauled down. Commanders will direct that no 
boats nor persons be absent from the vessels of the squadron 
on that day, on any pretence whatever, without permission 
from the commander-in-chief." The fate of this unhappy 
man, it is hoped, will have a salutary influence, and impress 
the minds of all present, with the necessity of keeping a strict 
watch over their passions and tempers at all times and in all 
situations. The Rev. Chaplain goes on to state: "Yester- 
day, Sept. 13, being Sunday, I preached on board the St. 
Mary's. The preceding general order was read immediately 
after my leaving the ship for the Cumberland, having been 
received during the services, and to-day, Monday, I have 
visited the prisoner on board the St. Mary's ; he had requested 
to be removed from the general gaze of the crew, and have 
a place assigned him where he might collect his mind and 
endeavor to prepare to meet the sudden summons to appear 



44 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

before his Maker. I had already been interested in the 
man, having heard a description of his proper demeanor 
before the Court — his being far superior to the general 
character of seamen, and his personal appearance at once 
pleaded much in his favor. His defense was brief, and it is 
said to have drawn tears to the eyes of several of the Court. 
He expressed to me much fear that God would not forgive 
his sins, therefore had but little hope. He continued, "it is 
a hard thing to die, but to die a violent death is harder still, 
and so short a time to prepare for it ! I fear that my pres- 
ent desires and purposes of repentance and prayer to God, 
are but the result of the fear of meeting the judgment 
day ; but a life of virtue and of piety looks to me far the 
most inviting, and had I to relieve my time, I trust I should 
pursue a different course and lead a religious life. But I 
fear again that even these feelings and impressions are but 
the result of my fearful apprehension as I cast my view into 
the other world. I have not got the brokenness of heart I 
wish to feel, and the peace of mind of which I have read 
that a sincere penitent experiences. I wish it — I have prayed 
for it — but do not feel it." Such was the drift of this 
man's own voluntary confession, made with great modesty 
and humility of demeanor. I spent considerable time with 
him — prayed with him — gave him marked passages in 
the different parts of the prayer book to be read, and left 
him ; while he earnestly entreated that I would be with him 
as often as I could. I shall see him again to-morrow, early 
in the morning. Agreeably to my purpose, I went on board 
the St. Mary's this morning, 15th, to visit the prisoner, whose 
term of life seems in the opinion of most of the officers of 
the fleet, to be drawing to a clo3 '. I found Lieutenant P. 
with him, (the offic •;■ h ■ had knocked down,)a young uvntle- 
man much to be commended for the course he had pursued 
towards this man. Lieutenant P. was now irivino- ] mn chris- 
tian counsel and endeavoring to further him to his prepara- 
tion to leave the world. He too had already been to the 
command' 'r-in-chief, to express his hope, if compatible with 
his view of sustaining the influence of the discipline in the 
navy, that this man might be pardoned. And the prisoner 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 45 

seemed not insensible to such kindness ; and no one can be- 
hold it without approbation and commendation towards Lieu- 
tenant P., and feel that it was an unkind blow indeed that 
should have been directed to such an officer. The young 
man continued to weep, hopeless of having the time of his 
mortal life extended beyond " to-morrow," as he said, at this 
hour at which we were then conversing, " and might it be 
that he himself could see the commodore, and plead himself 
before him, in his own language, for his life — but it seemed 
it could not be, and I will think no more about it ! " The 
hour, and more was passed ! and the principle part of the 
interview was spent in conversation on the topics that make 
up the plan of salvation, through Jesus Christ, who came to 
save sinners. A boat having come for me, from the St. Mary's, 
in answer to a signal, made by the Cumberland, 1 went on 
board the St. Mary's, this morning, Thursday, 17, a little 
after 9 o'clock, as no indications were discoverable from any 
quarter, that the wretched man condemned to death would 
be pardoned or reprieved. There had been many conjectures 
made as to the ulterior design of the commander-in-chief, 
and various sentiments advanced as to the probability that 
the execution would take place. I believe it was quite a 
prevalent impression throughout the squadron, though that 
sentiment seemed to change at different hours, that this un- 
fortunate man at the last moment would be pardoned. 

I had myself felt the influence of this impression, and I 
had delayed until this morning, to make known to the cap- 
tain a wish which the prisoner had expressed to me yesterday, 
that I would be with him on the day of execution. It was 
essential for me to do this in view of the general order, 
" That no boat should leave the ship on the day of execu- 
tion." On application to Captain Forrest, a signal was made 
to the St. Mary's for a boat for me. 

Still did I hope there might be relief for this penitent 
man, and yet I take not upon me here to criticize the sen- 
tence of the court, its approval or its execution, while I yet 
felt in the yearnings of my heart, for the life of the young 
seaman, that it might be his destiny yet to live, and yet to 
develop the better traits of a character that seemed to em- 



46 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

brace much of native elegance and superior capacity ; that 
he might evince in life the sincerity of a hopeful purpose of 
following a path of virtue and a course of penitential obedi- 
ence to the precepts of the gospel of Christ. 

I reached the St. Mary's after a short pull over the 
troubled sea, agitated by the north wind, which had thrown 
the usually more calm surface of the water between the tw T o 
ships, into a tumult which I now felt to be emblematical of 
the agitated bosom of the unfortunate man I was seeking to 
see. I went directly to the screen, behind which I found the 
prisoner sitting upon his cot, with Lieut. P. by his side, who 
offered to leave us if either myself or the prisoner desired it. 
Neither did, and the Lieuteuant remained a short time long- 
er, and then left me alone to attend this unfortunate man 
until the summons should be brought to announce that the 
hour of his execution had come. 

" I wish it were a less bright day," said the prisoner, " as 
it would then be in nearer keeping with my clouded fate." 

" I told him, on the contrarv, I wish it might emblem forth 
the light of the countenance of a God of mercy in his case, 
who forgives the penitent sinner through Christ, who suffered 
and died that we might forever live and be happy." 

" I have sometimes thought of death," he said, " and at 
times of sudden death, but I never dreamed that I should 
come to such a death as this. Oh, it is a dreadful hour to 
me ! Yes, 'tis a dreadful hour. But God at times is better 
to us than our fears. I have often thought before now with 
what feelings a man condemned to die must hear the mes- 
senger that came to tell him his hour had come and he must 
prepare to die, but I never thought such a messenger would 
come to me, but it will soon come !" 

" Yes, and yet the Saviour's death was such in sorrow and 
in manner, that he can feel for a heart that gives itself to 
him, though agitated at such a moment of near approach to 
such a deatli as yours is to be." 

" I know the Saviour suffered more than I shall suffer, 
and I would willingly suffer the whole day at the yard-arm 
in agony of body, if it could but atone for my *ins and save 
my soul ; but that would not save me. Oh, God, have mer- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 47 

cy on my spirit. I have been a great sinner ; I see that the 
sinner's course is a hard one, and I have brought myself 
where I never thought I should be, about to suffer a violent 
death, and I see that virtue and religion are the desirable 
things to be pursued to make a man happy in this life, and 
had I my life to live over again, I trust my course would be 
different, and my life too, a virtuous and religious one." 

I now encouraged him to hope in God's mercy through 
Christ. " You see now you have been on the wrong tack, 
and now you would change it, and we hope you have done it 
certainly in your views." 

" And in less than an hour more," continued the prisoner, 
" I shall stand before the face of my God." 

It was now near four bells, or ten o'clock, as the prisoner 
thus spoke. His execution was to take place betwen the 
hours of ten and twelve ; in a moment more the ship's bell 
struck ten, and there was a stir through the ship that broke 
the stillness that had before prevailed. 

" There it is," said the poor fellow, " the hour of my death 
has come ! Oh, God, have mercy on me ! Give me strength 
to meet my doom that is soon to attend me ! Give me some 
little peace before the final moment comes !" 

" I said to him, probably they will delay ; a signal is to be 
made from the Cumberland, before the preparation for the 
last scene shall be made." 

" Yes, they may delay it to the last moment, but I would 
not care to have it delayed ; and oh, let me not be detained 
long on deck." 

" You shall not be ; your wish shall be gratified," I re- 
plied, " but repose yourself on Jesus ; he knows what you 
are to suffer; he is now your only hope, jour only stay for 
strength." 

"Oh, yes, there is no help for me elsewhere; a poor sin- 
ner, who pleads no extenuation for his sins. But it is hard 
to die so soon — a violent, a felon's death ; and I have 
taken no life. It has occurred to me, as the captain said, who 
came to see me this morning, that there is hope as long as 
there is life, though he gave me none, and I have no reason- 
able hope to live but a few moments longer. No, no, my 
friend, none !" 



48 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" But 'tis right I should say to you, Jackson, to mitigate, 
though not entirely to relieve one thought that your death, 
though a violent one, will not he the same as the murderer 
on the gallows. Yours is a punishment at the yard-arm, 
according to the usages of the service at sea, and the charges 
on which your sentence was based will be known, as they are 
a high crime indeed at sea, but not murder." 

" Yes, but I would rather be put on the forecastle, I think, 
and be shot." 

" But 'tis of no moment, now," I continued, " it will not 
be to you, if redeemed ; the agitation of this hour, and the 
fell dishonor of a death at the yard-arm, shall give you to 
estimate with a deeper gratitude the blessedness of that 
calm of heaven that shall gather over the soul which was lost 
and is found, that was exposed to eternal danger and is now 
rescued to an unchanging safety. It shall be certainty, and 
no more doubt ; honor, and no more disgrace ; holiness, and 
no more sin." 

" Had I been confined on shore, away from the noise of 
shipboard, 1 might perhaps have had a better opportunity of 
thinking of the soul, and preparing for death, in the space 
given me, and could I have had a sister or a brother there, 
how it would have soothed these hours. But I have tried to 
do my best, and I fear it has been too little," and here the 
poor fellow paused a moment, and then added : " I think I 
must kneel down and pray now," and accordingly rose from 
the cot on which we were both seated, and desirinsr that I 
would not move, fell on his own knees, and audibly communed 
with his God in a prayer so fit and accurately expressed, that 
no word was uncharged with the feelings of a man ready to 
die and make his peace with God, and to commend his spirit 
to His care. Would to God a world could have heard it ; 
would to God a slumbering world could wake to the feeling 
of this man, who viewed with the vision of his awakened 
spirit the relation of his responsible being to eternity. I 
si ould have knelt with him at this time, but he requested me 
to retain my seat, from that generally inherent principle of 
a sailor's difference for an officer, which before had caused 
him, as I prayed with him, to offer me his jacket to kneel 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 49 

upon, lest the deck might he too dusty for a kneeling-place. 
Alas ! I thought, as I refused it, and other articles proffered, 
there is no need of bunting, or a damask cushion here, to 
kneel upon," when the anxious soul would look to God for for- 
giveness and salvation in its need, and when but a few hours 
more should consign the spirit to eternity. 

Six bells how struck, (eleven o'clock,) and yet the sum- 
mons came not. Still there was a stir over the decks which 
seemed to indicate it might be on its way. The stir was in 
answer to the preparatory signal now made from the Cum- 
berland to have all thing's in readiness for executing; the 
sentence of the court-martial. The prisoner knew not the 
signal, but his quick ear detected the movement, and as the 
signal of the Cumberland fell to her deck, the yellow Hag' on 
board the St. Mary's ran up to the royal-mast head. 

All necessary preparations had been early made on board 
the St. Mary's, for executing' the sentence now so soon to be 
consummated. A small platform had been arranged on the 
larboard side of the forecastle, a little above one of the guns, 
and supported by a stanchion, one end of which rested on the 
muzzle of the gun. This gun was loaded, the clu 3 line was 
used as the whip rope by which the unfortunate man was to 
be run up to the larboard arm of the foreyard ; and this line 
was so rove as to connect along- the vard with a weight of 
round shot, that was to descend by the foremast, and rouse 
the prisoner to the yard-arm ; and this weight, for the time 
being, was held in its place near the maintop, by a line that 
led over the muzzle of the shotted gun. On firing the gun, 
the shot would cut the line, and the weight fall, hauling the 
poor fellow up to the yard-arm. And around the St. Mary's, 
on this beautiful sheet of water, lay the different ships and 
other vessels of the fleet, nine or ten in number, in full view 
of the transaction, which was now so rapidly maturing to its 
finale. The yellow flag flying at the foreroyal mast head; 
all eyes from these different ships were gazing with interest 
for the succeeding: sig-nal from the Cumberland, the next sig;- 
nal would order the execution of the sentence of the court. 

But in the meantime how was it with the prisoner, still 
awaiting in the agitation and fulness of his feelings, the 



50 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

summons which the signal from the flag ship would soon 
lead to. A little before, he had put on his shoes, remarking 
that he would do it, though it was of little matter whether 
he did it or not. And again of his jacket, neatly folded 
upon his cot, he said he did not know that he should need it. 
The day was warm and bright, and the ship's crews were 
dressed in white. It was evident, however, that the hour 
was near at hand, and ere long, indeed, the sentry placed his 
hand upon the canvas and elevated one wing of the screen, 
as the first lieutenant of the St. Mary's entered, saying that 
he had come on the melancholy duty, (naming the prisoner,) 
to have him prepare for the execution of the sentence which 
had been pronounced upon him. The master-at-arms ad- 
vanced, relieved the prisoner's wrists from the irons, when he 
immediately arose and allowed his arms to be tied at the el- 
bows behind him ; in deep anguish he now burst forth : 

"Oh, my God, that I should ever have been brought to 
this !" calling upon his Maker and his Saviour to be with 
him, and to extend to him mercy and strength in such a need- 
ed hour, and to receive him with pardon to himself. It was 
soon over ; and he preferred that his hands should be tied 
tlso, and that his slippers should be removed from his feet. 
lie was now conducted to the main deck of the ship near the 
capstan. 

All hands having been piped to witness punishment, and 
were now mustered on the upper deck ; the officers in uniform 
on the quarter-deck. Capt. Saunders of the St, Mary's ad- 
vanced near to the prisoner, and read the death warrant, as 
the authority by which he was now called upon to have the 
sentence of the court-martial carried into effect It was 
done with a voice that showed deep emotions, and the silence 
of the assembled officers and crew, showed how deeply solemn 
was the transaction now being in execution. As the captain 
ended the warrant, the prisoner, standing pale and hopeless, 
which gave interest to his finely chiseled face, spoke in a re- 
spectful tone : " I am ready sir !" and then bursting into 
tears, he said : 

" Shipmates ! I warn you to take example from me, not to 
give way to your passions. By doing it, I have lost my life 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 51 

in this world, and I fear have lost my soul for eternity ; yet 
I have prayed to God and Jesus Christ to have mercy on my 
soul. 1 offer no extenuation for my offence ; I freely forgive 
any one who may at all have urged me on in the course of 
passion. I freely forgive the Court who have pronounced 
sentence of death against me; the Commodore who approved 
that sentence, and all who have had anything to do with it, I 
have but a few more moments to live, and I pray God to 
have mercy on my poor soul. I pray Jesus Christ to have 
mercy on me ; and 1 ask you all to pray for me the few mo- 
ments more that I have to live." 

When the prisoner had ended his brief and unpremeditated 
admonitions to his shipmates, he walked forward from the 
capstan to the mainmast where he stood, myself at his side, 
the master-at-arms attending him while the 1st Lieutenant 
advanced to the forecastle, to see that all things were in 
readiness for ending the fearful tragedy, and while he was 
gone, the prisoner let his own thoughts commune with his 
own soul and his God, making; a single remark or two, and 
saying to me, with other expressions : 

" i have a faint hope now that God will receive me, but i 
is a faint hope. And there! see, there!" directing my < 
rather himself looking; forward to the larboard foreyard-arm 
and s< i ing the preparations that had been made for the final 
sc< ne, and on the forecastle beneath the yellow flag which wa 
now flying" at the foreroval mast head. But ^oon he turned 
his face to the mainmast, and knelt on a coil of ringing 1 
side it ns I placed my hand on his shoulder to support him, 
and buried my own face in my handkerchief as 1 leaned on 
the bits, while this man offered up another prayer in an audi- 
ble tone for his own soul. One condemned in a few moments 
to offer up his life as an atonement for the broken laws of 
his country. He offered nothing- to extenuate his crime, he 
supplicated at this hour that God would give him a little 
strength for the few moments he had to stay on earth. The 
1st Lieutenant soon returned. The prisoner had risen, and 
though a few moments had passed, this scene with the solem- 
nity of an eternity had occurred, and whoever this man may 
be, his spirit at this moment was absorbed in its petition lor 



52 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

it salvation. As the Lieutenant approached the prisoner, 
and was about to advance to the forecastle with him, 

" Jackson, two men," mentioning their names, " wish to 
speak to you ; will you allow them to do so V" 

He assented, and near the forecastle they met him. The 
first said, as the tears stood in his eyes, for he was intimate 
with the prisoner, " Will you tell me if I have ever done any- 
thing to urge vou on to any wrong course, that I should be 
selected as your executioner ?" 

" No, George, I don*t remember anything ; but I believe 
you have rather urged me to suppress my passions. And, 
George, _Z" charge you, that if you meet any of my friends, 
that you never tell them a word of my end ; never lisp it." 

The second came forward and said, " Have I ever urged 
you on to any acts of insubordination whatever ?" Xo tears 
were in the eyes of this man ; he was older and of a differ- 
ent class of face. The prisoner paused, and then said, " I 
cannot conscientiously say that you have not 1 do not ac- 
cuse you, but if you think that you have in any way injured 
me by your advice, I forgive you as I hope in Heaven to be 
forgiven ! " 

Here I interposed, and said that I could not consent that 
the prisoner should be tormented by any further questions at 
such an hour. " He forgives all and bids you good-by." 

The Lieutenant repeated my objection and sustained it. 
The prisoner immediately ascended to the forecastle deck. 
As he approached the larboard side, his quick eye took in the 
scene, and he said to the 1st Lieutenant, "Mr. EL, I think 
this line should be overhauled a little more ; there will not 
be drop enough to it." 

" Yes there will be, Jackson," said the Lieutenant, "and 
besides, the gun mil Mil you, Jaclcson /" 

As he moved across the forecastle, and his eye ranged witli 
a hurried glance down the larboard side of the ship, he said, 
as if catching the eyes of some, "Good-by, lads," and to 
the master-at-arms beside him, " Good-by, master-at-arms." 
He now stepped upon the platform. 

I stood a moment beside him, though myself on the deck 
of the forecastle. The rope was placed over his head and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 53 

fastened to his neck. Was there any hope? Could the 
scene have gone so far, and be ended without taking this 
man's life? No, I thought not. It was too late. He must, 
he will go into eternity in a moment more. I cast my eye 
to the flag ship. The fatal signal to execute the sentence of 
the Court was that instant run up. I turned away my face, 
and two or three times paced across the forecastle deck. 
The cap was now drawn over the face of the prisoner. As I 
drew near him, the words came from his lips in the earnest- 
ness of entreaty, " Oh, God, have mercy on my soul ! Oh, 
Jesus, into thine hands I commit my spirit !" It was while 
one of the last two sentences were dwelling on the lips of 
this unfortunate man that the officer, leaning; over the fore- 
castle deck, said in rather a suppressed voice, " Fire !" At 
the same moment, the platform on which the prisoner stood, 
rose, the prisoner himself bounded a few feet in the air, as 
the loud report of the gun echoed over the waters, and as if 
no space had intervened, the now senseless, but one moment 
before praying man was hanging at the foreyard-arm of the 
St. Mary's. No muscle moved, no limb contracted, the con- 
cussion of the gun had indeed killed him ; and there he 
hung, a spectacle for the fleet to look upon, as evidence that a 
broken law will have its penalty, and to what an end a man 
may be suddenly brought by the indulgence of one ebullition 
of passion. 

I hope the reader will pardon this digression from my 
narrative, and also allow me a few remarks upon the disci- 
pline of the navy ; not of the U. S. Navy alone, but of all the 
navies in the world. While there may be those who, entirely 
unacquainted with a ship of war, may condemn the severity 
of a law that consigns to death a man for merely striking an 
officer, when the same offense by the civil law would be only 
assault and battery, or an assault alone, what would be the 
condition of a man-of-war, if striking; an officer was not 
made a capital crime. Subordination would be out of the 
question, and it would not be an uncommon thing to see offi- 
cers walking the quarter-deck with black eyes and broken 
heads. We have gone over the scene of Jackson's last hours, 
and of his execution. He knew the penalty was death ; he 



54 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

had heard the articles of war read probably once a week 
when practicable. The clause applicable to this crime reads : 
" Whoever shall draw, or offer to draw upon a superior officer, 
sludl suffer death, or such other punishmmt as a court-martial 
shall adjudge.'''' Every man knows the penalty of striking 
an officer. 






CHAPTER III. 

Continuation of Sam Jackson, — Remarks, — Arrival home, — Embargo, — 
Study navigation, — Effort to obtain a midshipman's warrant on 
board the U. S. frigate Constitution, — Bound apprentice to a ship- 
wright, — Remarks on my apprenticeship, — Ruinous effects of grog- 
drinking, — Violent tornado, — Sail-boat sunk, — Lives lost, Rescue five 
Swedes from drowning, — Gloomy times, — War between the U. S. and 
England, — Unprepared condition of the U. S., — Capt. Allen's story, — 
Arrive at the age of twenty-one years, — Certificate of good behavior 
from my master, — Go to New York, — Employment on the steam- 
frigate, — Her description, — Remarks on Robert Fulton, — Speech of 
Ogden Hoffman, — Enter the navy, — Torpedo boat, — Experiments,— 
Necessity of a strict watch, — Fortifying the coast, — Orders to join 
the gunboats, — Remarks and occurrences, — Flying squadron. 

Would the Commodore have been justified in pardoning 
Jackson? Humanity may answer yes, but stern Justice 
says no. It is well known by all who are acquainted with 
the usages of a man-of-war, and the nature of many who 
compose their crews, that were it not for this dreadful pen- 
alty, as I have just observed, officers would be frequently 
struck, particularly by boats' crews, while on shore, where 
they have an opportunity of getting intoxicating drink. 

The author has seen a case where, had it not been for the 
presence of mind and immediate interference of the boat- 
mates, the midshipman of the boat would have been struck 
by a fine seaman when drunk, the penalty for which by the 
law would have been death. The author has known an offi- 
cer to be pushed down while endeavoring to prevent the men 
from leaving the boat, while on shore. This, by the law, 
would also be considered as belonging to the death penalty. 
The officer being kind-hearted, and the boat's crew begging 
him to overlook it, he did so, otherwise the offender would 



5Q AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

have been tried bv a court-martial, and would have suffered 
the punishment awarded him. 

Suppose Jackson had been pardoned, what, in all proba- 
bility, would have been the effect upon the other seamen in 
the navy ? The trial and preparation for execution would 
have been looked upon as a farce, and many an old " Salt ' 
would have rolled over his quid, hitched up his trousers, and 
with an arch look, quaintly remarked : " No more hanging 
now boys." The equanimity of discipline in the navy would 
be at an end. Intoxicated seamen sometimes are very abus- 
ive to their officers, and are put in double irons and not 
un frequently gagged with an iron bolt, are placed under 
charge of a sentinel, and when the commanding officer sees 
fit, the offender is flogged at the gangway, and sometimes 
these offences are brought before a court-martial, but the 
penalty is not death. 

I knew Commodore Conner when a midshipman, have 
sailed with, and always thought him an exemplary man. 
and no doubt there was a severe struggle in his mind 
between dutv and inclination. His heart vearned over the 
unfortunate man as deeply as any other, and more so, no 
doubt, from the fact that the prerogative of life or death was 
with him. But duty predominated over feeling, and the man 
was executed. As we have gone through with the throbbing 
emotion of the unfortunate Jackson, his anxiety for the sal- 
vation of his soul, the kindness and sympathy of all around 
during the solomn interval, yet there is not the least doubt 
that it' the St. Mary's had gone into action before the sad 
affair occurred for which he died, however perilous the fight 
might have been, Jackson would have fought at his gun with- 
out the smallest fear of death, or perhaps any solicitude 
about his future welfare ; and had he been mortally wound- 

. he would have met death with a smile, as all brave sailors 
do. At least, this is my opinion ; perhaps some philosopher 
can explain it better than I can. 

I return to my narrative. All things relating to our cap- 
ture being settled, we had permission to depart with the barque, 
minus that portion of the cargo, which was given up by com- 
promise, rather than carry the case to London which, as I have 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 57 

before stated, would have detained us several months and per- 
haps the loss of the vessel would have been the result. John 
Bull at this time cut a great swell on the ocean, and was 
very abusive to the American flag, and to American ship- 
masters in every port were they met. 

We sailed from Halifax for PJvmouth, where we arrived 
safe in seven days, the owner of the Barque, and the captain's 
family, not having heard from us since leaving Rotterdam, 
thought we were lost. Captain H. treated me very kind- 
ly wishing me to remain with him during my apprentice- 
ship. I preferred returning to Boston where I found one of 
my uncles who had just returned from the coast of Sumatra, 
his ship had been cut off by the natives or Malays, and him- 
self severely wounded. He insisted on my studying navi- 
gation immediately, saying to me at the same time that if it 
was my determination to go to sea, I must be bound to some 
experienced shipmaster as taut as parchment could bind 
me. 

I commenced the study of navigation, and got along quite 
fast. The Constitution frigate was then ready for sea 
lying off Long wharf bound for Tripoli. I was desirous 
of getting a midshipman's warrant and entering the navy, 
but as that was rather difficult, being attended with a great 
deal of ceremony, I gave it up, as there was a prospect 
of a war with England or France, and our commerce 
much cut up, I concluded to learn a trade. 

One day, shortly after my return, I met my old school- 
master who flogged me so nicely, he was glad to see me and 
appeared very affectionate, and asked how I liked going 
to sea, and expressed much regret for the cause of our sepa- 
ration, saying, " you are a good scholar and 1 hope you will 
make a good seaman." We parted with a mutual good 
feeling. 

A large portion of our merchant vessels were hauled up 
and all kinds of business prostrated. A non-intercourse act 
by our government, put a stop to all commercial business, 
except those who had obtained permission to go after prop- 
erty that was considered in jeopardy. Then came the long 
embargo which put a stopper on American commerce, the 



58 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

carrying trade then fell into the hands of foreigners which 
made business for many. 

Our political horizon now became very much obscured, 
there were two parties in evident opposition, one called the 
war party, the other for peace on any terms, and had the 
latter succeeded, our glorious Stars and Stripes would have 
decorated Westminster Abbey and these prosperous States 
would have been numbered with the Colonies, the shackles 
firmly clenched and the boasted liberty of this great Repub- 
lic thrown back upon our children with taunts and insults. 

In April, 1S08, I was bound apprentice to a shipwright, 
and served my regular apprenticeship ; I shall always enter- 
tain the highest respect for my master and mistress, though 
both are dead. The recollection of their kind treatment to 
me will always be cherished with sentiments of profound 
gratitude. 

Many a time in after life have I in retrospect gone back 
and reviewed my apprentice days, which were the happiest 
in my life, with only those exceptions, where boys are eagerly 
lookino; forward to their maturity, and feeling the many re- 
straints which apprentices must be subjected to, as rather 
irksome and " grievous to be borne." 

But we seldom find a man who, after having arrived at 
the meridian of life, that ever complained of a too strict 
bringing up while an apprentice. 

When 1 look around me now, (1856) and enquire for any 
of my fellows, or those who were apprentices contemporary 
with myself, 1 can find but one, Mr. E. D., who has retained 
his integrity, prospered in his business, and reared a numer- 
ous and respectable family. I believe many of the rest went 
long ago into the drunkard's grave. 

There were many customs in those days that were per- 
nicious and destructive to the morals and habits of boys. I 
allude particularly to that of supplying grog at eleven A. 
ML, and at four P. M. This was the incipient training for 
drunkenness, and I have known both masters and appren- 
s to have been inmates of the Alms House at the same 
\ me. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 59 

And there is no doubt that their sensibilities were too 
much blunted for mutual recriminations. 

Some that were my associates and quite respectable, who 
were learning different trades, took their grog, frequented 
the theatre, and other places where low and obscene jests 
and songs went round, and spent the Sabbath in boat-sailing 
or riding. 

Now, all this seemed perfectly harmless, the influence 
upon future character was not thought of, neither did these 
young men think, at the time, that the foundation they were 
laving would destroy every principle of integrity, and ulti- 
mately prove their ruin. 

Three of these which I have just alluded to served out 
their terms in the State Prison for thefts. And two of them 
after beins liberated ended their days in a most miserable 
manner, being frozen to death while in a state ot intoxica- 
tion. And I could record the sad end of many others, but 
the few that have been noticed, may suihce to show young 
ap] r ntices how easy it is to imbibe bad habits, and how hard 
to scape the consequences. 

Early habits fasten upon youth, and if good, they never 
Loose the salutary influence which result from them, but on 
the other hand, if evil, they grow more and more obtuse, until 
they bring their victims to destruction. 

At the period of which I am now speaking it was custom- 
ary when an apprentice had attained the age of twenty-one 
for his master to give him a freedom treat, or collation. If 
the master was a generous man then it was ample, consisting 
of all sorts of spirituous liquors, cold meats. &c. The young- 
man went around the neighborhood and invited his friends, 
both young and old, to partake of the feast. 

Ali this would be well enough, were it not for the result. 

On such days, many, both young and old, become intoxi- 
cated, and theVettino' c l run k at a freedom, was always looked 
upon with some degree of excuse. 

This custom and the serving grog to workmen has long- 
since been discontinued. It may be asked, how my fellow 
apprentice Mr. D. and myself escaped the general ruin. I 
answer, we pledged ourselves that we would not taste a drop 



60 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of intoxicating liquor during our apprenticeship, and never 
during our lives if we saw tit to extend the pledge thus far. 

My master and mistress were both strict observers of the 
Sabbath, and in no case would they allow an apprentice to 
absent himself from Church except something very extraor- 
dinary prevented his going. 

I remember one Sunday in August, about the time of the 
first bells ringing, that 1 took a walk up to the ship-yard 
before meeting time, and it was evident that a shower was 
at hand, as it had already begun to look very black. I saw 
also, that a heavy squall was near by, and as it began to 
rain I got under an old shed for shelter. Just as I had 
entered, a sharp peal of thunder broke near me, and the 
rain came down in torrents. At the same time a violent 
tornado swept along as if it would carry everything before 
it. 

Just before the tornado I saw a large sail-boat pass 
up the channel near to the wharf where I was standing. She 
had lowered her mainsail, ready for the squall, there 
were three men on deck, and in an instant as soon as she felt 
the force of the wind she went over, tilled, and went down. 

Instantly springing to the dock, I found a man near by, 
called and told him what had happened. 

We jumped into an old canoe half full of water, and prov- 
identially found two oars near by. The man pushed the 
canoe out, while I bailed the water with my Sunday hat. 

\\ hen we got near the sunken boat her mast heads were 
about .six feet out of water. The three men were then o-oimr 
ashore in the small boat. 

We asked them if there were any more on board and un- 
derstood them to answer " no," it was blowing so hard, that 
we probably could not distinctly hear ; while at the same 
moment there were live souls in the cuddy. They had ffone 
in to keep out of the rain and had drawn the scuttle door 
over and fastened it. 

Notwithstanding, had we known that there had been any 
one below, I could have dived down and possibly might have 
saved them. 

But we had hardly got up to this boat when we saw full a 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 61 

quarter of a mile from us another boat that had capsized 
and sunk, with live strapping Swedes holding on to the masts, 
and anything they could get hold of, neither of whom could 
swim. 

And when we reached the boat, encouraged them to hold 
on, and by no means to touch our canoe ; for it was certain 
that if they got hold of our gunwale, they would capsize us, 
and then we should all struggle together. 

We placed our boat so as to haul them in over the bow, 
one at a time, until all were in. They could not have held 
on much longer. 

Our boat leaked badly, and with these five clumsy fellows 
on board, brought her down to within six inches of her gun- 
wale ; but by keeping perfectly steady, and constantly bailing, 
we reached the shore in safety. 

These fellows were put upon the wharf, they turned 
about and went off without a thank or a single mark of grat- 
itude. 

By the time we had reached the dock, the large boat had 
been hauled in, the cuddy opened, and five bodies were taken 
out; two of which 1 recognized; a father and his son. 
After all was over I met my master on the wharf, who re- 
buked me severely, for being absent from church. Besides, 
I was dripping wet, my Sunday clothes and hat were spoiled. 
" But," he continued, "as you have saved these men I shall 
overlook it this time." 

I was not allowed to be absent after ten at night without 
special permission. This I did not consider as a restriction, 
for I had no desire to be out after nine, as my evenings were 
mostly spent at school or with my relatives. I also had 
plenty of books, so that on evenings when there was no 
school, I remained at home, and spent the time in reading. 

In 1812, war was declared between the U. S. and Great 
Britain; and if there ever was a justifiable war this most 
assuredly could be called one. 

No country had ever been more grossly insulted ; and we 
were justified in applying the well known maxim, " tread on 
a worm, and it will turn," not that the worm has any means 



62 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of defence, but it turns, to show you that it eannot remain 
motionless and passive under the insult. 

When the war question came up in the British parliment, 
one noble Lord arose, and with an indignant frown demanded 
why the house condescended to discuss the paltry subject, 
A war with the U. S. Pray, who and what are these madmen 
with a few fir built frigates, with a patch of striped bunting 
at their mast heads, and no seamen to man them ! 

This noble lord fairlv scouted at the idea. And sure 
enough, what preparation had the U. S. for this formidable 
contest. Not a ship of war of any size fit for service until 
repaired. 

The following list comprises the names of all the vessels 
belonging to the United States Navy in 1812, before the late 
war with Great Britain. Those marked in italics were lost 
during the war. The Boston, burnt at Washington, was a 
mere hulk, not worth repair, as was also the New York, 
which escaped the flames. 

Ship United States - - 

President - - - 

Constitution - - - 

Chesapeake - - - 

Constellation - - 

Congress - - - - 

New York - - ■ 

Adams - - - 

Boston 32 

Essex ----- 

John Adams - - ■ 

Louisiana - - - . 
Besides gunboats, bombs, &c, and nothing larger than a 
frigate. No navy yards of any magnitude, except at Wash- 
ington, no money in the treasury, no materials for ship- 
building at hand, no preparation on the frontiers, no facilities 
for transportation or carrying guns, and the necessary articles 
required in war, including provisions and the numerous 
requirements for ship building, from the Atlantic States to 
the Lakes. 



TE. 




RATE. 


44 


Ship Hornet - - ■ 


- - Id 


44 

44 


Wasp - - ■ 
Brig Adams - - ■ 


• - 18 

■ - i -. 


36 


Oneida - - ■ 


. - 1 i 


36 


Syren - - ■ 


■ - 16 


36 
32 


Argxis - - ■ 
Enterprize 


--16 

• - ! , 


42 


Rattlesnake 


■ - i i 


32 


Nautilus - ■ 


• • 1, 


32 


Vixen - - ■ 


• - 14 


24 
18 


Viper - - ■ 
Sch'r Vixen - - • 


- - 12 

■ - 8 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. G3 

No array, no horses, scarcely any copper, but a small 
amount of iron in the country, very little hemp or rigging, 
and a very small supply of duck fit for war-ships sails. 
Here we were, in this comparatively destitute condition, and 
more than all this, an important question arose how were 
we to get these articles in sufficient quantities for our present 
use. Our ports would of course he immediately blockaded : 
but we were now "in for it" war was declared, and all 
we have to do now is to go ahead. . Here was another 
item on the catalogue of our troubles ; very soon, in all 
probability, our coast would be lined with British men-of- 
war, an.d many of our harbors were without any protection 
whatever. And it would take some time before we could 
erect any sort of defence. 

It would also require several weeks to repair, and equip 
our ships of war for actual sea service. 

Before an efficient army could be recruited and properly 
drilled, tiie enemy would have landed upon our shores, many 
of her veterans from Europe, that had been cradled among 
battles; the heroes of Waterloo, and of other conquests; 
where the legions of Bonaparte had been put to flight. All 
these, with their well-trained officers, who had gained ex- 
perience on the battle-ground, must be met and repulsed 
too. 

But how can our raw recruits meet these well disciplined 
and hardy English, Scotch, and Irish regiments, who never 
retreat from the point of the bayonet or seldom turn their 
backs to the enemy except for stratagem. 

Have we officers well enough versed in military tactics, to 
meet this formidable foe? 

And then, our Lilliputian navy must go out upon the ocean 
and cope with the heroes of the Nile, Trafalgar and Copen- 
hagen. This fearful odds we must contend with. WE DID, 
and history tells the sequel ; our cause was a just one, the 
contest was for the honor of our country, and for our national 
rights. The Gocl of armies was with us, and we can truly 
say, that " the battle is not to the strong, nor the race to the. swift. 

But we had among us, an enemy far more potent than the 
one we met. 



G4 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

The strong opposition party, who, I believe would at one 
time have given up the country to the enemy if it had been 
in their power. 

But the patriotism of '75 preponderated! Ships were 
built on the lakes, harbors fortilied, armies raised, roads cut 
around the frontier, naval depots, and cannon founderies es- 
tablished, the seaboard put in a state of defence, war-ships 
of every class were built, armed, equipped, and manned with 
noble fellows, and the result of our first naval battle is too 
well known to be repeated here. 

I have dwelt longer on these details than I had intended 
at the commencement; but as they came along in the course 
of my aprenticeskip, I felt as though they belonged to the 
story. 

The enemy had now partially blockaded our eastern coast, 
or what amounts to the same thing, they had cruisers all 
along our eastern shore, for the purpose of destroying the 
lumber and fishing business. 

There was an old veteran coasting-captain named Allen, 
with whom I was well acquainted, who owned an old sloop, 
and by skill and courage had managed to keep her running 
between Kennebunk and Boston, during the war. At one 
time, when she lay upon our graving ways for some slight 
repairs, I saw that the oakum was hanging out of her seams 
throughout the bottom, and asked him if he was not going 
to have her calked. 

" Calked ! no ; I expect these British devils will take 
me, and then the calking bill will be a total loss. Besides, 
we calculate, to pump the whole Atlantic through her every 

trip." 

When he returned, he came round to tell us about his 
narrow escape, which I had already seen in the newspaper. 
Said he : 

" I had just got out of the river, with a thundering deck 
load of boards and shingles. The wind was light, but blow- 
ing on shore, and it was rather thick ; the sun had not yet 
burned up the fog, when, by George ! the first thing I saw 
was the Boxer, not a musket shot from me. I up helm, 
eased off my main boom, and run back as fast as the old 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 65 

sloop would carry me. I run in round the point, let go my 
anchor, and lowered my mainsail. We had hardly got the 
sail stowed, when we saw a boat pulling in round the point. 
1 knew it was the Boxer's boat, and that she way after in >, 
and that there was no time to lose. I had four good men 
and a boy with me, and I had four good muskets. We got 
them up and loaded in a jiffy. We then piled up a tier of 
shingles on each side the quarter-deck. The four men lay 
down flat upon the boards, with their muskets pointed at the 
boat. There were six men and an officer in her, and when 
she had got near enough to hear me, 1 stood on the taffrail, 
and told "them ' in the name of the Commonwealth to keep off.' 
The officer sung out, ' Shut up, you old Jonathan.' 

< ; I stepped down, told the boys to get good aim and fire! 
They fired and popped off three of them. We loaded again, 
stepped on to the shingles, pointed our guns at them. The 
officer sung out, ' We have surrendered.'. 

" I then ordered him to come along-side instantly, or I 
would shoot every one of them. They pulled up along-side. 
I ordered him to*pass U P uis muskets, breech first, and then 
come aboard. When he got on deck, I said to him, ' What 

do you mean, you puppy, by calling me a Jonathan ? 

if you wasn't a prisoner, I'd seize you up to the rigging, and 
take the dust out of your jacket. Come, unbuckle that 
sword ; it is just what I want to cut brush with.' 

" We hauled the dead bodies out of the boat, hove up our 
anchor, and went up the liver. We had no hand-cuffs on 
board, so we tied the prisoners*back to back, but treated them 
kindly. We expected the brig after us every minute, but 
we had got into a nook where she could not hurt us, and in 
the afternoon we buried the dead, and put the prisoners on 
board the revenue cutter, and the next news we heard was, 
that the Boxer had been taken by the U. S. brig Enterprize, 
after a sharp action of about thirty minutes. The Boxer 
had her colors nailed to the mast head, and when she was 
nearly cut to pieces by the shot from the Enterprize, they 
sung out for quarters, saying ' their colors were nailed, and 
could not be hauled down? " 

This story of Capfc. Allen may bo relied on as strictly true. 



66 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

July 16, 1814, I was twenty-one years of age. My mas- 
ter, according to the custom, gave me a freedom collation, 
and endorsed my indentures, certifying that I had been an 
honest and faithful apprentice. Tiiis I found to he of much 
benefit in many positions in which I was subsequently placed. 
As there was not much business doing in Boston at this time, 
I concluded to try my luck in New York ; and on arriving 
there was much surprised at the contrast between the two 
places. 

While Boston was still and silent as the Sabbath, New 
York was all bustle and life. Privateers were fitting out 
from nearly all the principal wharves ; recruiting parties 
drumming through the streets, and the whole city seemed to 
be one continuous scene of activity. I found employment 
immediately, on the steam frigate Fulton, at A. & N. 
Brown's yard, on Manhattan Island. She had just been 
raised, and was now nearly ready for planking. Robert 
Fulton, Esq., had made a contract with the U. S. govern- 
ment to construct and deliver the steam battery, at a given 
time, with a guaranty as to her speed and draught of water. 
Her length I think was 175 feet ; breadth, 60 ; her form or 
side-line was oval ; her bottom below the lower deck was in 
two parts, to admit the wheel amidships, in order that it 
might be protected from the enemy's shot. Her sides above 
water were five feet through, timbered and bolted in such a 
manner as to make her shot-proof. She had two masts 90 
feet long, calculated for lateen-sails, the yards for which were 
175 feet long, The guns, thirty in number, were to be col- 
umbiades, carrying a shot of 100 pounds ; the carriage 
was to run on a slide, and they were the best constructed gun 
carriages I have ever seen. In consequence of both ends of 
the frigate being round, four guns from each end could be 
brought to bear on one object. Her machinery was protected 
by a wall of white oak four feet thick, and truly she was a 
formidable creature. 

While this frigate was in process of construction, Mr. 1!. b- 
ort Fulton, her projector, was at the ship-yard every day, ami 
it was very evident that he labored under a doubt about h< r 
coming up to his guaranty, for by a close mathematical cal- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 67 

culation it was ascertained to a certainty that she would 
draw more water than was at first expected. 

Hence the opening amidships would be too low for the wa- 
ter to pass off from the wheel. These difficulties would 
materially affect the efficiency of the frigate. This caused 
Mr. Fulton a great deal of mental anxiety, which visibly 
wore upon him, and gave him quite a haggard look. 

Notwithstanding this, he was very agreeable and sociable 
with the workmen, and I thought him one of the finest men 
I. had ever met with. 

The old maxim of "one beat the bush, and another catch 
the bird," was fully applicable with Mr. Fulton, for all who 
ever knew or have read of this gentleman, cannot suppress 
a feeling of regret at the manner in which his persevering- 
genius was requited ; for after he had succeeded in getting a 
permanent steam communication between New York and Al- 
bany, wading through innumerable troubles and mortifica- 
tions, and what was worse than all the rest, he was involved 
in lawsuits with those who, luorldrlike, would deprive him of 
the honor due to him for his invaluable discovery, and by 
these ruinous litigations was stripped of his hard-earned 
property. 

I weil remember his first boat, and when she started on 
her experimental trip to Albany. He was looked upon as 
certainty a crazy man. Even the boys hooted at him, and 
around the wharf where the boat lay, it was so densely crowd- 
ed that vehicles could scarcely pass. And when the wheels 
besran to move, a tremendous shout went forth that made all 
ring again. 

Mr. Fulton, in his coarse working dress, was busy at work 
and unmoved by the insulting epithets which he could not 
help hearing. As for instance, a great, swarthy looking fel- 
low forced his way through the crowd, and when near the 

boat exclaimed, "Whereas the fool?" Even this 

last insult did not disturb his equanimity, nor discompose him 

* He did not live to see the completion of his contract ; he died Feb. 
15, 1815. 



68 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

in the least. The world knows the result of this so-called 
foolish, incipient attempt at steam navigation. 

In one of my school books I remember the following say- 
ing: 

" The evil that men do lives after them, but the 
Good is oft interred with their bones." 

How very seldom do we hear the name of Robert Fulton, 
although it is registered among the great men of America. 
1 know of no monument or cenotaph erected to his memory. 
He gave to the world a system of communication which has 
brought the nations of the earth in close proximity. The 
advantages of steam over sail ships are beyond calculation, 
and this was accomplished through the indubitable and per- 
severing, yet unremunerated energy of Robert Fulton. 

In 1838, an attempt was made by his friends, (I believe in 
legislature of New York.) to obtain a grant as a compensa- 
tion for services rendered the State. Ogden Hoffman, Esq., 
was employed as an advocate on behalf of the claimants. 
The following is an extract of his excellent plea in behalf of 
the object. 

" This House, and the world, have been told that Robert 
Fulton was not the inventor of steam navigation. 

" England asserts that it is to a Scotchman that the hon- 
or of this discoverv is due, and that it was the Clvde and 
the Thames that first witnessed the triumphs of this won- 
derful invention. France, through her National Institute, 
declares that it was the Seine. Even Spain, degraded and 
enslaved, roused by the voice of emulation, has looked forth 
from her cloistered halls of superstition, and declared that in 
the age of Charles, in the presence of her court and nobles, 
the experiment was successfully tried. 

" But America, proudly seated upon the enduring monu- 
ment which Fulton has reared, smiles at these rival claims, 

* One street, leading from Broadway to where his boats lay, was called 
Fulton street. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 69 

and secure in her own, looks down serenely upon the billows 
of strife which break at the base of her throne. 

But it has been denied in this debate that any other credit 
than that of ojood luck, is clue to Fulton for his invention. 
Gentlemen would have us to suppose that good luck is the 
parent of all we admire in science or in arms. If this be 
so, why, then, indeed, what a bubble is reputation ! How 
vain, and how idle, days and sleepless nights devoted to the 
service of one's Country! Admit this argument and you 
strip from the brow of the scholar his bay, and from those of 
the statesman and soldier their laurel. 

Why do you deck with chaplets the statue of the Father of 
his Country, if good, and good luck alone, be all that coin- 
mends him our gratitude and love? 

A member of this House retorts " bad luck would have 
made Washington a traitor." Aye, but in whose estimation ? 
Did the great and holy principles which produced and 
governed our Revolution depend for their righteousness and 
truths upon success, or defeat? Would Washington, had he 
suffered as a rebel on the scaffold? Would Wash i no-ton 
have been regarded as a traitor by women ; and Hancock, and 
Green, and Hamilton, by the crowd of patriots who encom- 
passed him, partners of his trial and sharers of his patriot- 
ism? Was it good luck that impelled Columbus through 
discouragement, conspiracy and poverty, to persevere in his 
path of danger until this western world blessed his sight, 
and rewarded his energy and daring ? Does the Gentleman 
emulate the glorv of the third kino- of Rome, Tullus 
Hostilius, and would he erect in our land a temple of 
fortune ? It cannot be that he would seriously promulgate 
such views ; that he would take from human renown all that 
gives it dignity and worth, by making it all depend less on 
the virtue of the individual than on his luck !" I believe an 
appropriation was voted to his family, but the amount I 
never learned. 

As in all probability ship building would be dull, and 
everything about New York seemed to be of a warlike 
character, I concluded to enter the U. S. Navy for the steam 
frigate. It occurred to me, that I might sign the shipping 



70 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

papers, and at the same time get permission from the recruit- 
ing officer to work on her until she was launched. Thus I 
should be drawing pay from the yard and from the govern- 
ment at the same time, as it would probably take a month 
to get her ready for launching. 

1 went to the rendezvous, made mv wishes known to the 
recruiting officer Mr. Edward Barnwell, who was much of a 
gentleman, and subsequently a good friend to me. He im- 
mediately complied with my request, and I entered as first 
carpenter's mate. He gave me two months advance, requiring 
no other security than the endorsement on my indentures ; 
ulso a written permission to continue working on the frigate 
until my services should be required in the naval service. 

Besides this monstrous steam battery, we constructed a 
torpedo boat for the purpose of destroying enemy's ships at 
anchor. She was ninety-six feet long, thirty feet beam, and 
six feet deep in the ocean. Her shape was very much like 
the bowls of two spoons put close together. At the smallest 
end a place was fixed on the outside for the torpedo or vessel 
containing the powder (about 2001b) and communicating with 
this vessel of powder were three common gun locks, with 
wires leading inside the boat and well covered with cloth to 
prevent water from coming inside, 

At the other end was a submerged wheel about six feet in 
diameter, to which a crank was fixed and attached to a shaft 
seventy-five feet in length, and running along in the boat, 
about two feet from the bottom. 

Holes, two inches in diameter, were bored through the shaft 
four feet apart, and through these were bars six feet long 
projecting three feet on each side ; fifteen men were to be 
seated on each side the shaft and every man with a bar in 
his hand. 

It was calculated that the horizontal movement of this 
shaft would propel the boat rapidly through the water. The 
submerging process was arranged by copper tubes and buoys 
upon the surface of the water calculated and arranged so as 
to admit a sufficient amount of pure air, and also to graduate 
the depth of the machine ; as it was intended to be placed 
under a ship bottom at night in such a position as toexplodo 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 7 1 

the powder, and at the same time to make an immediate 

retreat. 

This infernal machine was never wanted, peace having 
taken place before she was launched, and while speaking of 
Mr. Fulton, perhaps it may not be out of place here, to 
remark, that the " commencement of hostilities between the 
U. S. and Great Britain, gave new activity to Mr. Fulton's 
thoughts on sub-marine warfare. The poiver of his machines, 
the officers of the British navy had learned from what he 
had done in England, and it is certain that they approached 
our shores with no little caution. This was manifested by 
their solicitude to know where Fulton was, and what he was 
about, whenever they had an opportunity of making inquir- 

les. 

By the respectful distance at which they generally kept 
their ships from our shores, and the precautions they took 
whenever they approached them, evidently showed that they 
were afraid of Fulton. 

On these accounts there was no opportunity of doing any- 
thing with the common torpedo. During the war, several 
partial, and ineffectual attempts were made upon the enemy's 
vessels, by different enterprizing individuals. It is very 
possible that the dread of what might be done by Mr. Fulton, 
who they knew was a resident of New York, and had there 
been trying experiments with sub-marine explosions, deter- 
mined the British to direct their hostilities to other parts of 
the U. S., rather than to that port. 

But Mr. Fulton's plan for sub-marine warfare, met with no 
countenance, (mth tlie exception of the torpedo-boat, built to ac- 
company the steam frigates) from the government. He had 
not been able to inspire the executive officers with any confi- 
dence in them. 

The unfavorable opinion of some of our gallant naval 
commanders, was calculated to have great influence against 
any reliance on Mr. Fulton's machines. No system was ar- 
ranged for preparing or employing them. Attempts, which 
were made, were conducted by persons who were entirely 
inexperienced in the use of torpedoes, and had none of the 
qualifications for such an enterprize but courage. 



72 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Under such circumstances, nothing but failures were to bo 
expected. Had Mr. Fulton's proposition to organize a ma- 
rine corps, to be practised and instructed in the use of torpe- 
does been adopted, the war might have afforded an opportu- 
nity of giving them such a trial as would have been decisive 
as to their utilitv. 

But Mr. Fulton's thoughts on sub-marine warfare took 
another direction. 

Having ascertained by the experiments he had made with 
his cable cutter, that powder might be discharged from a 
piece of ordnance under water with effect ; he conceived the 
idea of forming sub-marine batteries. 

With this view, he instituted a number of experiments, to 
try the practicability and effect of discharging cannon loaded 
with ball at different depths under water. 

He made a number of calculations on this subject. 

His desire to ascertain what resistance a ball of given 
dimensions, propelled with a certain velocity, would meet 
with in passing through a body of water, at a certain depth. 
The basis he took for these calculations, and the calculations 
themselves, mark his ingenuity and science. 

He assumed, that a body passing through water, would 
meet with a resistance equal to the force of a column of the 
same diameter as the body moving with the given velocity. 
He then ascertained what head or height of water would be 
required to discharge a stream of water from an orifice at 
the foot of a perpendicular tube, with the same velocity with 
which the body was supposed to be propelled. 

He then, bv the well-known rule of hydraulics, found 
what force or power the ascertained head of water would 
give, and thence formed his estimate as to the resistance 
which a body projected in water would meet with. 

In this instance, as in others, he was not satisfied with 
arriving at the information necessary for his particular pur- 
pose ; but he established from his calculations, a rule which 
may, by a very brief and simple arithmetical process, afford 
all the information and accuracy generally necessary for 
practical purposes. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 73 

His first experiment was with a four pounder having tlie 
breech and as much of the gun as is usually within the 
sides of a vessel, in a water-tight box, and the muzzle stopped 
with a composition. The box and gun were then submerged 
three feet in the Hudson. The gun was fired by dropping a 
live coal thorugh a tin tube which penetrated the box imme- 
diately above the vent of the gun, and rose above the surface 
of the water. The ball was found to have struck the sand 
at the bottom of the river, at the distance of forty-one feet 
from the muzzle. 

The gun was uninjured. This experiment satisfied him 
that guns might be placed in a ship, below her water-line 
with their breech on board, and their muzzle in the water, 
without any more danger of their bursting, than there is 
when they are fired in the air. This gave him the idea of 
arming ships with guns to be fired in this way. 

He proposed that the muzzle of the gun made for the 
purpose, should recoil through the stuffing box, and be fol- 
lowed by a valve which should exclude the water when the 
gun is not protruded. An elegant model on this construction 
is now in possession of his family. 

He next tried the same piece with a pound and a half of 
powder, and fired it by means of one of his water-tight locks, 
when it was entirely in the water, three feet below the sur- 
face. 

The ball penetrated eleven and a half inches into a target 
of pine logs, which had been prepared for the purpose, and 
placed beneath the water at the distance of twelve feet from 
the piece. 

His next experiment was with the Columbiade, carrying 
a hundred pound ball, fired at the target as in the last in- 
stance. All that we know is, that the ball tore the target to 
pieces, and that the cannon was uninjured. We have not 
information that will enable us to give any further details 
of this experiment, but we know that Mr. Fulton was entirely 
satisfied with the result. 

He proposed to use cannon in this way, by suspending 
them, two for instance, from the bows of the vessel. A 
single shot, as he demonstrates, from a piece of large calibre, 



74 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

which should break through into the side of a ship, at any 
considerable depth beneath the water-line, must be fatal to 
her. And though the range of shot fired through the water, 
may be but a few feet, yet, conflicting vessels, whenever they 
engage yard-arm and yard-arm, with accounts of which our 
naval heroes have of late made us so familiar, must be so 
near as to give effect to sub-marine discharge. 

Mr. Fulton did not propose that these guns should bo 
always in the water ; but that they should be suspended so 
as to be raised when the vessel was not in action. These 
plans for the sub-marine use of cannon, were submitted to 
one of our most distinguished naval commanders, who gave 
them his decided approbation. 

He expressed a strong opinion that such an attack would 
be fatal to any vessel exposed to it, and that it would be ex- 
tremely difficult for any enemy to evade an attempt, made 
with sufficient resolution, to destroy her by these means. 

In 1818, Mr. Fulton took out a patent for several improve- 
ments in the art of maritime warfare, and means of injur- 
ing and destroying ships and vessels of war, by igniting gun- 
powder under water, or by igniting gunpowder on a line 
horizontal to the surface of the water ; or so igniting gun- 
powder, that the explosion which causes injury to the vessel 
attatched, shall be under water. 

This description, in the words of his patent, includes 
another idea he had, which was to plant batteries of sub- 
marine guns near the channels through which hostile vessels 
must pass to attack our seaports. 

He communicated to Mr. Jefferson an account of his ex- 
periments on sub-marine firing, with drawings of his various 
plans. Mr. Jefferson expressed himself much pleased with 
this novel mode of maritime warfare, and assured Mr. Fulton 
that he would recommend it to the attention of government. 

This curious project gave rise to the steam man-of-war. It 
having been suggested by the distinguished naval officer be- 
fore alluded to "that in approaching an enemy so near as was 
necessary to give effect to sub-marine cannon, the vessel, if 
she were rigged in the ordinary way, would be liable to be 
entangled with her adversary. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 75 

To meet this ohjection, Mr. Fulton proposed to move the 
vessel by steam. 

His reflections on this project, and what he saw of the per- 
formance of so large a vessel as the Fulton, her speed, and 
the facility with which she was managed, led him to conceive 
that a vessel of war might be constructed in which, to all the 
advantages possessed by those now in use, might be added 
the very important ones which she would derive from being 
propelled by steam, as well as by wind. 

At the commencement of the year 1814, a number of the 
citizens of New York, alarmed at the exposed situation of 
their harbor, had assembled with a view to consider whether 
some measures might not be taken to aid the government in 
its protection. 

This assembly had, in fact, been invited by some knowl- 
edge of Mr Fulton's plans for sub-marine attack, and of his 
contemplating other means of defence. They deput t] a 
number of gentlemen to act for them, and they were c i I d 
the Coast and Harbor Defence Committee. Mr. Fulton ex- 
hibited to this committee the model and plans for a vessel 
of war to be propelled by steam, capable of carrying a strong 
battery, with furnaces for red-hot shot, and which, he repre- 
sented, would move at the rate of four miles an hour. 

The confidence of the committee in this design, was con- 
firmed by the opinions of many of our most distinguished 
naval commanders, which he had obtained in writing and 
exhibited to the committee. 

In this document, which is signed by Com. Decatur, Capt. 
Jones. Capt. Evans, Capt, Biddle, Com. Perry, Capt, Warring- 
ton, and Capt, Lewis, these gallant and experienced seamen, 
enumerate the following advantages that such a vessel would 
possess : In a calm or light breeze she could make choice of 
position or distance. If she could move at the rate of four 
miles an hour, she could in our harbors, bays and rivers, be 
rendered more formidable than any kind of engine hitherto 
invented, and in such cases she would be equal to the de- 
struction of one or more seventy-fours, or of compelling them 
to depart from our waters. They therefore gave it as their 
decided opinion that it was among the best interests of the 



76 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

United States, to carry Mr. Fulton's plan into immediate 
execution. 

It was contemplated that this vessel, besides carrying her 
proposed armament on deck, should also be furnished with 
sub-marine guns. 

The committee without delay addressed a memorial to 
Congress, recommending the invention of Mr. Fulton, and 
praying that measures might be adopted for executing his 
plan. 

With this memorial the committee addressed a letter to 
the Secretary of the Navy, soliciting in a very earnest 
manner his patronage and influence with the government. 
Without the skill and talents they say, of Mr. Fulton, the 
machine cannot be constructed. It was apprehended that 
there would be great difficulty about funds. On the one- 
hand there was a great disinclination to make the project 
public by inducing a discussion on the subject in Congress ; 
and, on the other, it was doubtful whether the executive was 
authorized to make the necessary appropriation, without a 
law for the purpose. 

To obviate these difficulties, the committee offered in be- 
half of the association which they represented, to construct 
the vessel at their own expense, and risk of assurances were 
given that the government, which alone could give employ- 
ment to her, would receive and pay for her after she was 
built, and her utility demonstrated. 

It was estimated that she would cost about 320,000 dol- 
lars, nearly the sum requisite for a frigate of the first class. 
This activity of private citizens for their own protection, 
this voluntary offer to risk their funds, first upon the success 
of the project, and then upon a bare assurance of the execu- 
tive of the government, and this intimate intercourse between 
the rulers and the people, presents a view of a state of society 
of which it is believed there are few examples. 

The projet was zealously embraced by the executive, and 
the national legislature in March, 1814, passed a law author- 
izing the President of the United States to cause to be built, 
equipped and employed, one or more floating batteries for the 
defence of the waters of the United States. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 77 

The building of the vessel was committed by the Coast 
and Harbor Defence Association at New York, to a sub-com- 
mittee of five gentlemen. 

They were Gen. Dearborn, Col. Henry Rutgers, Oliver 
Walcott, Sam. L. Mitchell, and Thomas Morris, Esqs., who 
were recognized by the government as their agents for this 
purpose. Mr. Fulton, whose soul indeed animated the whole 
enterprise, was appointed engineer. 

On the 20th of June, 1814, the keel of this novel and 
mighty engine was laid ; and in little more than four 
months, that is, on the 29th Oct. she was launched from the 
yard of Adam and Noah Brown, her able and active archi- 
tects. 

The scene exhibited on that occasion was magnificent. 
It happened on one of our bright autumnal days, multi- 
tudes of spectators crowded the surrounding shores, and 
were seen upon the hills, which limited the beautiful prospect. 
The river and bay were filled with vessels of war, dressed in 
all their variety of colors, in compliment to the occasion. 

In the midst of these was the enormous floating mass, 
whose bulk and unwieldly form seemed to render her as 
unfit for motion, as the land batteries which were saluting her. 
Through the fleet of vessels which occupied this part of the 
harbor, were seen gliding in every direction, several of the 
large steamboats of the burden of three and four hundred 
tons, these, with bands of music, and crowds of gay and joy- 
ous company, were winding through passages left by the 
anchored vessels as if they were moving by enchantment. 
The heart could not have been human that did not share in 
the general enthusiasm expressed by the loud shouts of the 
multitude. 

He could not have been a worthy citizen what did not then 
say to himself with pride and exultation " this is my coun- 
try," and when he looked on the man whose single genius 
had created the most interesting object of the scene " this is 
mv countryman." 

I have now gone over with what might be called a lengthy 
detail of Mr. Fulton, and some of the results of his remark- 
able genius. Also, the projecting building and launching 



7 8 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of the steam frigate whose christened name was Fulton De- 
tnologes. And as I am about to leave her, will just add, 
that while she was on the stocks it was pretty well ascertained 
that boats from the British cruisers off New London, and 
that vicinity, had been seen in Hurlgate with muffled oars ; 
and it was also well ascertained that British officers had actu- 
ally been upon the spot where she was erected. And once dur- 
ing the time that we were at work on her, a fire was dis- 
covered in the lower part of the yard, at noonday, evidently 
the work of an incendiary. 

This lire had no doubt been placed there with a view of 
its bursting out in the night and for the purpose of destroy- 
ing the steam frigate. 

A volunteer guard consisting of two companies of infantry 
were placed at different posts around the yard, with positive 
orders not to permit a boat to come along-side the wharf 
unless she had an American flag at the stern, and was com- 
manded by an American naval officer. 

Xo spectators or visitors were allowed in the yard except 
passed in by the officer of the day, and on no consideration 
could a visitor be allowed to remain in the yard after the 
workmen had knocked off. 

Besides these precautions, two gunboats were stationed in 
the river, about 200 yards from the frigate's stern, and on 
the opposite shore, the workmen voluntered one Sunday and 
built a block-house, in which were placed four eighteen pound- 
ers and a sufficient number of men to handle them. 

Another block-house was built on mill rock in Hurlgate 
which was also well armed and manned. And I think it 
would have required a pretty large quantity of British skill 
to have enabled them to do any mischief to the steam frigate. 

Independent of all the precaution I have named, every 
one of the workmen had a loaded musket, placed where lie 
could put his hand upon it at a moments warning. The 
frigate was to be commanded by Commodore David Porter 
who had just returned from Valparaiso, after the unfortunate 
capture of the Essex frigate, which he commanded, and so 
noblv defended. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 79 

The particulars of this battle I shall give in another 
chapter. 

Several of Commodore Porter's surviving officers and a 
number of the crew came home with him, who were also 
ordered to the steam frigate. 

A few days after the launch I received orders to report 
myself on board gunboat No. 98, (one of the guard-boats) 
for public duty. 

Only one of the regularly appointed officers (Lieut. Oden- 
heiuier) had joined her; he had charge of gunboat 110, and 
was also commander-in-chief of all the flotilla, stationed 
round the frigate. 

Commodore Porter, with his officers and crew, had been 
ordered to the River Potomac, to assist in preventing the 
British fleet from ascending the river for the purpose of de- 
stroying the City of Washington. 

But notwithstanding the alacrity with which guns and men 
were collected, the British ships got the start and succeeded 
in reachino- Washington Citv, and in a hurried manner set 
fire to the capitol. And after doing much damage to the 
buildings made a hasty retreat just in time to save them- 
selves. 

Before the return of Commodore Porter to New York, the 
Secretary of the navy had ordered a number of small fast 
sailing vessels to be purchased, and four to be built. These 
vessels were to be from three to four hundred tons, and were 
intended for Atlantic cruisers and were called the Flying 
Squadron, to be commanded by Commodore Porter. 

According to my orders I went, bag and baggage, on 
board the gunboat, and thus commenced my life on board a 
man-of-war. 

It was thought necessary to increase the number of gun- 
boats, as the frigate was to lie in the river, probably two 
weeks longer, there being much work to be done preparatory 
to receiving her engine and machinery, which were to be 
taken in at Jersey City. And it was possible that the 
British might be foolish enough to make an attempt on her 
with their boats. 

Accordingly, four additional gunboats were placed around 



80 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

her, and on board of them were the seamen who had ship- 
ped for the U. S. Naval service. Each gunboat was com- 
manded by a master's mate or passed midshipman, and as 
before stated, Lieut. Odenheimer had charge of all. 

The officers, such as the sailing-master, midshipman, boat- 
swain, gunner, carpenter, and sailmaker, had the cabins, 
and the petty officers and seamen the hold. The boats were 
soon crowded to overHowino; and if the infernal regions were 
raked over, a more villanous set of vagabonds could not be 
found than were anions; these fellows. 



CHAPTEE IY. , 

Hard living on board gunboat,— Drunken brawls, — Contrast in my life,— Riot 
and desertion from a gunboat, — Sent in chase of the fugitives, — Return 
without them, — The big nigger comes back of his own accord, — John, 
the cook, quarrels with his wife, — He jumps overboard, —Rescued with 
difficulty. — Wife sent on shore, — frigate goes to Jersey City, — Came 
near falling from the mast head. — Went ashore without liberty, — Came 
near being flogged, — Much flogging going on, — Pompous sailing mas- 
ter, — Flung Squadron purchased, — Am sent from steam frigate to Navy 
Yard, — Put aboard old Alert, — Filth and misery, — Savage treatment, — 
Brutal inhumanity, — Miserable condition of sick and dying— Deplor- 
able effects of whiskey, — Came near being stabbed by an Irish senti- 
nel, — Ordered to join the Firefly, — Poor opinion of some U. S. officers — 
Recruits daily coming on board the Alert,— History of Harris, — a 
cruise out of the yard, and difficulty in getting back, — Black cook con- 
fined for theft, — His feet frozen, — Our boat sunk,— Lucky escape, — 
Two young men cruelly whipped, — Become dissatisfied, and determine 
to desert, — Kind remonstrance of a friend, — Gave up the idea of de- 
serting, — It returns again, — Made another attempt, — Was kindly ad- 
monished and gave it up, — Returned to the brig, — Was promoted, — 
Condition after, — Made a warrant officer, — On board the Firefly.— Fleet 
ready for sea,— Sent to Algiers, — Story of John Cribbs. 

Many of them having returned from the various prison 
ships in Europe, and others were old discharged privateers- 
men ; here and there might he found a good and respectable 
sailor. 

No. 98, the gunboat to which I was attached, was in a 
very filthy condition, and among her crew were some of the 
Essex's 16 men, who were very quarrelsome and overbearing ; 
supposing themselves to be entitled to more privileges than 
any of the others. The officers of the boat were also from 
among the Essex's 16. 

We often came short of our rations, especially of the fresh 
beef ; one pound per diem was sent on board for each man 



82 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and boy ; but the officers in the cabin usually kept two or 
three women, besides company from the shore to dine. 

The cook was ordered to select the best pieces for the 
officers, and the remainder was given to the crew, which very 
often was quite insufficient ; and for this, we had no remedy, 
as complaint was out of the question. A plentiful supply 
of rum was brought on board, without any restraint what- 
ever ; consequently the crew were continually drunk, and 
very quarrelsome. 

The nights were hideous, both among officers and seamen. 
Scarcely a night passed without a fight. 

I selected a berth near the cabin bulk-head, and close up 
in a corner, and as soon as I had taken my supper, crawled 
into it, to get out of the din. Among the men in the hold 
were several bad women, who usually mingled in the fights, 
of which they were often the cause, and scarcely ever were 
without a pair of splendid black eyes. Many a night have 
I lain in my snug hiding place, and looked out on the drunken 
tumult before me, and how bitterly did I lament the course 
I had taken, in entering the navy, as in all probability this 
was only a specimen of my two years life on board a man-of- 
war. 

This sudden transition from a civilized life to a residence 
among brutes, was overwhelming to my feelings. I found 
that 1 had an important lesson before me, and that the earlier 
it was learned, the better, viz : to make the best of everything, 
and as the old adage says, "there is no use in crying for 
spilt milk ; " mistakes that have already happened, cannot 
be prevented, although they may sometimes be rectified. 

The mistakes and follies of the past may teach us to be 
more cautious for the future ; but thev should never be al- 
lowed to paralyze our energies, or surrender us to weak repin- 
ing. 

" I knew that I should not remain long on board a gun 
boat ; my habits were good ; I used no intoxicating drinks ; 
never had played a game of cards, nor was I ever found in bad 
company ; and 1 had another cheering thought, which was, 
that 1 might be promoted to the rank of carpenter, as 1 was 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY, 83 

now only carpenter's mate, and was resolved to do my duty 
faithfully, and leave the rest with Grod. 

One night, about nine o'clock, we were alarmed by a terri- 
ble shouting from one of the other boats, who were hailing 
us, and at the same time, keeping up a brisk tire of mus- 
ketry ; we could just discern, through the darkness, a boat 
pulling rapidly towards the shore, and a gruff voice crying 
out, "Bhod for supper ! Blood for supper ! ' Lieut. Oden- 
heimer hailed every gunboat, and ordered them to man their 
boats, and go in pursuit of the fugitives. 

Oar boat was instantly hauled alongside, and six men, of 
which 1 was one, and a midshipman, ordered into her; each 
man was armed with a loaded pistol and a cutlass. 

We pulled directly for the runaway boat, that was now 
close under the Brooklyn shore ; we followed them by their 
noise, and as soon as they saw that they were pursued, they 
struck off again for the New York side. It being very dark, 
we could just discern the boat a short distance ahead, but 
they succeeded in landing before we could get up with them. 

And now commenced the hunt. 

Here were seven of us, that composed our boat's crew, 
and all armed to the teeth. We went directly to the " hook," 
the abode of infamy and wretchedness, where we supposed the 
deserters had gone ; and here, in going from house_ to house, 
we were exposed to the insults of those who inhabited these 
dens. It was certain, that we should not find either sym- 
pathy or co-operation in the object of oar pursuit, for deserters, 
thieves, murderers, and pickpockets all find an asylum in 
this pandemonium of wretchedness. The midshipman who 
had charge of our gang, was a blustering fellow, and I thought 
he would°get us into a fight, which was, however, avoided. 

We gave up the chase, and returned, unsuccessful, to our 
gunboat. We understood the next day, that the deserters 
were four in number, and among them was a great strapping 
nigger, who went by the name of Big Tom ; and he ivas, sure 
enough, a powerful fellow. ^ row had occurred on board 
their'gunboat, and the officers had attempted to put this big 
fellow in irons, when he swore that he would kill any man 



84 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

who laid a Land on him. He then, with the other three, 
started off as before stated. 

At one time during our cruise at the " hook," we went into 
a house where he was ; he being in the back room, we did not 
see him ; and when he was told that there were armed men 
after him, he immediately seized a stick of hickory firewood, 
and swore death to any man that should approach him ; and 
upon the whole, I think it was fortunate for us all that we 
did not see him. 

A few days afterwards he came voluntarily on board and 
delivered himself up. He was confined for a few days and 
then set at liberty. The others were not taken. 

The cook of our boat had his wife on board ; she was a 
little red-haired thing, and a regular team. She went on 
shore nearly every day to pick up a little spending money and 
often came on board not sober. This sadly provoked John, 
who swore that she should not set foot on shore again unless 
he went with her. This injunction on her liberty was too 
much for Lizzie. She began to snuffle and cry, and vowed 
she would jump overboard. Now John unfortunately had 
but one arm. He had lost the other in the engagement on 
board the Essex. 

Lizzie went to the bows and threatened to drown herself. 

" Well, drown and be " says John ; " you are too 

much of a coward to jump overboard." And as though sud- 
denly inspired with an impulse that it was highly important 
that one or the other should die, he jumped overboard, and 
was borne along by the rapid tide ; with a heavy pea-jacket 
on, and his head just above water, and with his one tin splash- 
ing away at a great rate. 

She began screaming and wringing her hands, begging 
some one to get the boat and save her clear John. " 0, my 
dear John !" John was fortunately saved, and brought on 
board half drowned. She clenched him round the neck and 
nearly smothered him with kisses. 0, such a display of con- 
jugal felicity. They both took a good horn of whiskey, and 
turned in. 

The frigate b in g now read v to receive her machinery, was 
towed to Jersey City. One hundred men were selected to go 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 85 

with her, to assist in getting the boilers on board, to take in 
the masts, and also to rig her. I was one of the number, 
as there was much carpenter's work to do. And it was cer- 
tainly a great relief to me to be clear of the miserable gun- 
boats, and to have employment for both body and mind. 

It was now December, and the weather extremely cold. 
We soon had the greater part of the machinery on board, 
and both masts in, and expected to have her ready for ser- 
vice by the following May. 

But I came near meeting with an accident which would in 
all probability have stopped my career. I had a temporary 
stao-e rioged at the mast head for the purpose of putting in 
two heavy composition sheeves. 

I was hoisted up to the stage in a girt line, and then the 
sheeves were sent up to me. The morning was very cold, 
and the north wind very piercing; the handling of the 
sheeves had so benumbed my hands, that they were nearly 
useless, in consequence of which I took a cant backward, but 
fortunately held on. A little more and I should have come 
down a distance of eighty feet, but my time had not yet 
come, so I lived on. 

While lying at Jersey City, a new sailing master joined the 
frigate who had never been in the United States naval service 
before. And it appeared that he thought flogging was as 
much a sailor's due as his rations, for he kept the cat agoing 
on the most trifling occasion, although, according to the strict 
rules of punishment, as they then existed in the navy, a 
sailing master had no more right to seize a man up and flog 
him, than a midshipman had. But as he had sole charge of 
the frio-ate for the present, he was determined that every one 
should know the full measure of his authority. 

I went over to New York one evening, to see a particular 
friend, and as the time slipped away rather imperceptibly, I 
concluded to remain over night and go on board the frigate 
early in the morning. 

iii consequence of there being much ice in the river, the 
ferry-boat did not go over as soon as.usual ; by this delay I 
could not get on board before the hands were turned to. Our 
brave sailino* master called me to know where I had been. 



86 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I replied, " To New York, sir," When, drawing himself up, 
and putting on an important look says, " .Remember, sir, this 
is the first time ; now beware of the second.' 7 1 fully appre- 
ciated his meaning which was, that if 1 went to New York 
again without asking his liberty, that he would Hog me. 

I was well aware that I had no right to absent mvself 
from the ship without liberty. And 1 was also well aware 
that he had no authority to strike me, I being a petty officer, 
and none but a commandant or a post captain can flog a petty 
officer. 

. However, this all passed off, and during the time we were 
together all was well. 

The small vessels which I have previously alluded to as 
comprising the Flying Squadron, were purchased and ly- 
ing at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. And as they were to be 
fatted out with dispatch, we were shifted from the steam-frig- 
ate to the Navy Yard to man these vessels, as they were 
all to undergo more or less alterations, the crews could not 
live on board of them until after the repairs had been com- 
pleted. Accordingly we were put on board the old prize 
ship Alert. She was the first prize taken by the frigate 
Essex, and as she was rather old, was converted into a receiv- 
ing ship. 

When I first went on board this filthy tub my heart sunk 
within me. I thought the gunboat was the filthiest thiu<r 
that floated, but as the saying goes, she was not a circum- 
stance to the old Alert. 

As a general thing, order and discipline are seldom found 
to prevail to any extent on board of a receiving ship. In 
some cases they are commanded by some old worn-out or su- 
perannuated naval officer, whose energy, if he ever had any, 
has entirely gone out. Or, perhaps the command is given to 
some dissipated fellow who does not know how to treat men. 
And then, the seamen w r ho are put on board these dismal 
abodes, are constantly shifting ; some probably do not remain 
twenty-four hours. So there is but H title opportunity for es- 
tablishing any permanent rules and regulations on board a re- 
ceiving ship, whatever may be the disposition of the com- 
mander. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 87 

These remarks are intended to apply only to the time of 
the late war with England. Since then I believe there has 
been much improvement in this class of ships. At the time 
I was on board the, Alert she was commanded bv a drunken 
tyrannical master's mate, and when I had reached the berth 
deck, with my bag and hammock, I walked aft to the place 
set apart for petty officers, and was just about laying them 
down when a fellow sung out to me : 

" I say ! look out for the lice there ; there are some as big 
as cockroaches." 

I thought if they were as large as that, I could easily 
catch them, so I left my dunnage and went on deck. 

I had hardly stepped from the ladder, when close by me, 
this master's mate knocked a man down for not touching his 
hat as he passed him. Everything was in the utmost disor- 
der ; men were drunk and roaring about the deck, and away 
forward, in a hole which they called a sick bay, were some 
ten or a dozen miserable creatures. One was raving in a 
paroxysm of delirium tremens ; there were ten in the last 
stage of consumption, and could not live many hours, and 
several with fever and diarrhoea. And such a smell ! 

I had now a fixed determination to harden myself to ev- 
erything that came along, even to death itself, and in any 
shape. 

There were about two hundred men and boys on board this 
ship, who had been recruited for the Flying Squadron. 

The weather was very cold and stormy, and many of these 
poor fellows had sold every article of clothing except what 
they stood in, for rum. Hence they were unprotected from 
the weather. The ration of a half pint of raw whiskey, was 
served to each man at seven and a half o'clock in the 'morn- 
ing, and scarcely a dozen out of the whole crew that had a 
blanket or a bed. The government furnished them with a 
hammock, and many kept themselves too drunk to hang them 
up, and would lie down and sleep upon the wet deck ; then 
followed severe colds, which often terminated in consumption, 
fever and death. But the half pint of raw whiskey in the 
morning gave them new life for a short time, and then they 
were down again. 



88 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

There was one young man of very fine appearance, who 
had been thoroughly educated and had studied for the minis- 
try, and who, through the influence of bad company and dis- 
sipation, had been "induced to enter as a landsman, at the 
naval rendezvous, for the sake of the miserable pittance of 
advanced wages which he would receive, and with which he 
might, while°it lasted, feed that insatiable appetite for rum, 
winch was soon to terminate his unhappy career. After he 
had taken his deadly potation, and during its exhilarating 
influence, he would mount an empty cask, and preach a frag- 
ment of a sermon, condemnatory of the very course which he 
was pursuing. And I must say, that in point of language 
and enunciation, there were few ministers then or even at the 
present day, that could excel him. But he died, and was put 
into a drunkard's hole. 

One morning a dead man was found on the berth deck, 
near the main hatch. The poor fellow had died during the 
night, probably from exposure, as he possessed neither bed 
nor clothing. It appeared that there was no one on whom 
the duty of taking proper care of the corpse devolved, so it 
lie there all that day, frozen stiff. 

I ate but little, for my stomach fairly loathed everything 
I saw in the shape of food. As the weather continued very 
stormy, we were kept on board, and I had as much as I could 
do to watch my clothes bag. We spent about a week in this 
miserable manner, when the weather became clear, and all 
that were able were sent on shore, and to be employed on 
board the several vessels of the squadron. 

The commodore's flag was hoisted on board the brig Fire- 
fly, of four hundred and seventy tons burthen. She was a 
beautiful vessel, having been built for a privateer ; but she 
needed much alteration to fit her for the armament intended 
for her, which was fourteen guns in the waist, and two long 
eighteens on pivots amidships. Lieut. Edw. Barnwell, my 
friend, of whom I have previously spoken, was 1st Lieuten- 
ant, and through him I was ordered to her as chief carpen- 
ter's mate. Com. Porter had committed the fitting of this 
brig to Mr. Barnwell. I had charge of several jobs, and I 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 89 

soon perceived that lie put great confidence in me, and often 
gave his orders to me instead of the master- workman. 

One morning, I had passed the sentinel at the gangway, 
on my way ashore from the Alert, an officer standing near to 
pass the men out. Just as I had got upon the wharf, it oc- 
curred to me that I had forgotten a list of spars which had 
been made out on the previous evening. I immediately re- 
turned on board, and as I passed the sentinel, said to him, 
that I had forgotten a paper, and should pass out again 
in half a minute, and in about that time was at the gang- 
way again, and as I was passing out, he, quicker than a Hash, 
put his bayonet at my breast and ordered me to stop, threat- 
ening that if I moved an inch he would put it through my 
body. I just stepped back and called an officer, who passed 
me out, and when upon the wharf, I turned round to get a look 
at this (as I then called him,) infernal scoundrel, and surely, 
he could not well be mistaken. He was a tall, gaunt, lan- 
tern-jawed Irishman, with but one eye, freckled and horribly 
scarred with the small-pox. I never saw him afterwards and 
probably it was well for both of us that I did not. 

Perhaps the reader may think that in my description of 
the gunboat, and the receiving ship, Alert, that 1 have dealt 
altogether in superlatives, or that I have painted things 
in too high colors; but I assure you, that the half has nob 
been told. 1 find mvself at a loss for words and sentences, 
that will give an adequate idea of scenes that I have witnessed, 
while in the United States Navy ; but more particularly, 
during the war with England. It may be, that I was more 
sensitive than I should have been, considering my place and 
position ; and took more notice of things and circumstances, 
which appeared so unpleasant to me, and which, perhaps, to 
another would hardly have been noticed. I have also spoken, 
and shall have occasion again to speak, in what may be 
thought a disrespectful manner, of officers with whom I have 
come in contact during my service in the United States 
Navy. 

It is well known to every one, at all acquainted with the 
United States or any other navy, that in the time of war, be- 
sides the regularly commissioned, and warrant officers, there. 



90 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

are those, who enter the naval service, as subordinate offi- 
cers. Such as masters, mates, and sometimes sailing masters, 
without either warrant or commission, and men of whom 
nothing is known of their previous habits ; the only qualifi- 
cation required is seamanship. 

It is of this class that I have had occasion to speak thus 
harshly. 

But I regret to say, that before I get through with my 
naval life, I shall have occasion to state facts highly derog- 
atory to the character and standing of both commissioned 
and warrant officers. 

I return again to the old Alert, and to scenes in the Brook- 
lyn navy yard. 

Additions were daily made to the Alert's crew, by men that 
were shipped in New York, and also of exchanged prisoners, 
many of which had lately arrived in New York. One day 
there came on board, a boat load of men from the rendez- 
vous ; and among them was a man who, although intoxicated 
and in sailor's garb, I know at once was not a sailor. But 
strongly suspected that he was a victim either of rum or 
some rascally land shark, and very probably of both ; he 
was tumbled on board with the rest, like so many dead hogs. 
Neither of them had a rag of clothing or a cent of money. 
I kept the run of the mail just alluded to, until he was 
sober, when I commenced a conversation, but I soon saw that 
his mind was not sufficiently composed to enter upon the 
subject I wished to broach. 

Next day, I succeeded in catching him sober, and at leisure, 
said I to him," you are not much of a sailor, I presume? " 

" No," he answered with a deep sigh. " I am no sailor, 
nor do I ever expect to be." 

" How long have you been shipped?" 

" Yesterday morning."' 

" Did you get any advance wages ? " 

" No ; the fellow that took me to the rendezvous became 
my security, and took the two months advance." 

"Who was this fellow?" 

" It was a landlord, that I had staid with a few days. I 
had been drinking freely, and he told me I must pay my 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 91 

board and liquor bill, and in order to do this, I bad better 
ship tor the navy as landsman ; the pay is eight dollars a 
mouth. It was quite immaterial to me what I did, so I 
shipped, and he put me on board this recieving ship without 
any clothes, but what I stand in." 

"You. shiver very much, are you not cold?" 

" Yes, I am very cold, and have been shaking all night ; I 
don't feel very well neither." 

It so happened that it was a stormy clay, and we should 
not be sent on shore, which would give me a good opportu- 
nity of finding out my new acquaintance. I led him into 
my berth, where we were not likely to be interrupted, and 
then requested him to tell me his story, which he began as 
follows : 

<k My name is James Harris, and I have been a merchant 
in Boston for the last thirteen years. My place of business 
was in Market Square, — the firm was James Harris & 
Co. My partner resided in New York, he had married a 
lady of great wealth, from Albany. The brother of this 
lady was a very dissipated fellow, and had often enticed my 
partner into gambling houses where he had lost large sums. 
Still he was attentive to his business ; we frequently had 
large consignments arriving at New York, the business of 
which was attended to with punctuality. About three years 
ago, 1811, I received a confidential note from a friend, 
advising me to come to New York, as my interest required 
it, and as I had not received my usual letters, I begin to 
suspect that something was wrong. Accordingly I started 
for New York, went to our office in South street, and found 
all right apparently ; except that Mr. P. had not been out 
for several days, being confined at home with rheumatism. 
Just as I had reached the door to go, the cashier stepped out, 
saying he wished to say a few words to me before seeing Mr. 
P. We went into a small lobby, and he then told me that 
probably my partner would not like to see me, as he had got 
into a difficulty where he had b^en obliged to use the name 
of the firm, for the present, ' and,' said the cashier, ' I have 
managed it thus far, and taken up all the paper as it came 
to maturity ; but am not able to say how much more there 



92 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

is out with the firm's name, though it having nothing to do 
with the business of J. Harris & Co.' He also informed me 
that Mr. P's. brother had requested him to take up the 
drafts, and be would see it all made right." 

Harris now paused a few moments. I readily saw that 
he was much agitated. He placed both hands to his face, 
resting his head on his knees. I waited patiently a few 
moments, when he again resumed, but seemed to forget 
where he had left off, and on my reminding him, he contin- 
ued : 

"O, yes! Well, I called on P., who was sitting in the 
parlor, and in close conversation with a gentleman, who im- 
mediatelv left without mv being; introduced. As what I had 
heard at the store, had troubled me very much, and P. evi- 
dently saw my agitation, I thought I would commence the 
business without delay. As soon as I began to enquire why 
the weekly letters had been discontinued, he burst into tears, 
and for ten minutes did not utter a word ; at length he 
raised his head, saying, ' Harris, I am a ruined man, I have 
gambled away all my own property, and a great amount 
that belonged to my wife. O, those cursed cards ! that 
damnable billiard table ; and what makes it more distressing;, 
my wife's brother has been my ruin ; he has actually led 
me to, and remained with me all night in houses of ill fame, 
thus deceiving my wife, by telling her I was detained on 
business. I have been diseased for a month, and that alone 
has almost tempted me to commit suicide. Sherman has prop- 
erty, and has promised to see me out of tha scraoe. My wife 
knows all, and has forbidden her brother ever to enter the 
door again; the gentleman you saw when you came in, is a 
broker, who has engaged to raise what I need at present to 
keep the business of the firm straight.' " 

Here Harris paused again, and said he should like a little 
whiskey, as he felt a gnawing at his stomach. It was now 
nearly eleven o'clock, and neither of us had taken any break- 
fast, and I was determined at first that he should not have 
anything to drink, at least, until I had got his story, that is 
if I could help it. But he insisted on going to his mess for 
the grog, which he drank, and of course rendered him unfit 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 93 

for further conversation at that time. When I conversed 
with him again, which was a few days after, he seemed to 
have forgotten me; but when I took his hand, and reverted 
to the conversation, the corner of his eye brightened up ; he 
returned the squeeze of my hand, and said : 

" O, ves ! yes ! vou are my Boston friend." 

" Yes, my dear fellow," said I. " if I can befriend you in 
any way, I will most cheerfully do it. Come now, and tell 
me the rest of that story." He agreed to it, I took him 
into a snug place, and reminded him where he left off, but 
I found his mind was too much agitated to proceed in a reg- 
ular manner, so I began the conversation. 

" Well, how did you come out with your partner ? ' 

"Oh ! he died soon after this." 

" Well, how did your business matters turn out? 7 

" Oh, ruined ! ruined ! I lost everything in Boston, and 
then I o-ave myself up to intoxication. My wife died with 
grief. My oldest son supported me until a month ago. I 
came to New York, called on Sherman, my partner's brother- 
in-law, to see if he would give me some assistance, as he had 
been the cause of my ruin. He was much bloated, and 
looked badly. He ordered me out of his house. 1 told him 
I would not leave him until he had given me enough to buy 
a suit of clothes. He replied, ' I will give you some clothes ; 
come with me.' So I followed him to a common sailor's 
clothing store ; he ordered a suit of sailor's clothes, which he 
paid fur and left me. I threw them into the street, the shop- 
man picked them up again, and persuaded me to put them 
on, which I consented to, and these are the clothes I now 
have." 

I had no opportunity of conversing with this unfortunate 
man after this, though frequently saw him among the crowd, 
sometimes drunk, and sometimes sober. 

One cold, drizzly morning, I heard the boatswain's whistle, 
and the call "all hands on the quarter-deck to master! I 
soon ascertained that a draft was to be made from this re- 
ceiving ship of seventy-five men for Lake Ontario as it was 
expected that Com. Chauncy would soon fight the decisive 
battle. When the men were all up, the purser sung out, 



94 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" All you, whose names are called, pass over to the starboard 
side." And among those selected, I saw poor Harris. He 
was a fine looking man, very much resembling Daniel Web- 
ster. Very stem these men were ordered to the boat along 
side, to be conveyed to the Albany packet. Harris had no 
pea-jacket, and was wet through before the boat left the 
ship's side. I saw no more of him, and think it probable 
that he died very soon after arriving at Sackets Harbor, as 
the dysentery was very prevalent, particularly among the 
intemperate, and but a few survived. 

The old Alert was now so crowded with fresh recruits, that 
it became necessary to ship some of us on board the Corvette 
John Adams. I was among the draft selected for her ; we 
went on board early in the morning. The purser's stew- 
ard had not arranged for our rations, so we had nothing to 
eat that day, until just at night, when we got some fresh 
beef, which I ate raw. The John Adams, soon after we 
joined her, was ordered to be fitted as a cartel for Bermuda, 
to bring home the crew of the U. S. frigate President, which 
had been captured by a British squadron off New York, and 
carried into that place. We were now divided round among 
the gunboats ; myself and twelve others were put on board 
a gunboat which had been used as a tender for^the frigate 
President, while she lay in the harbor of New York. ^ This 
gunboat had been hauled up in a cove, and was full of rats 
and old rigging. A negro was given us for a cook, and we 
were to live on board this craft, until the vessels composing 
the Flying Squadron were ready to receive their crews. Wo 
who were on board the Tender, were among those selected for 
the Firefly, and of course we belonged to the commodore. 
I had two companions, with whom I was more intimate than 
any of the others ; although when drunk, they were furious, 
and would as soon kill me as they would a rat. Still they were 
excellent seamen, and men of good information, when sober ; 
and as I did not use any kind of intoxicating drink, I fre- 
quently became the butt of their ridicule and sometimes of 
abuse. Their names were Jack Wilson and Jack Anderson; 
the latter was a Scotchman, and belonged to Aberdeen, and 
a man of excellent information ; he had a wife in Brooklyn, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 95 

near the Navy Yard, although not allowed to leave the 
yard, I have many a time assisted him in getting out at 
night, that he might visit his family, and frequently supply- 
in o- him with money. His wife at one time was very sick, 
and notwithstanding my kindness towards him, he got drunk 
one night, and abused me shamefully. Next day, however, 
he felt quite ashamed, and asked my forgiveness. Wilson 
was in the battle of Lake Champlain, was wounded in the 
head, and a little grog would make him crazy. 

As we had been pent up in the Navy Yard nearly ten 
months, we devised a scheme to get out and have a cruise ; 
not a drunken one, however, but merely a look around, as we 
termed it, and in order to effect this without being stopped 
by a sentinel, we remained on board the Firefly, where we 
had been at work all day, until after sundown ; it was bitter 
cold, but we were determined to have a cruise, at any rate. 
When all was still, we got out on the jib-boom, and dropped 
on to a fence, and then to the ground, and by climbing over 
two or three other fences, found ourselves in the street. We 
went along until we came to a church, lighted up for a lec- 
ture ; went in and took seats near the organ. We enjoyed 
the meeting very much, particularly the closing part, which 
was an infant baptism. 

When the water was put upon the little fellow's face, he 
commenced crying. Wilson spoke out, so that all who were 
near could hear him, " That's no sailor's child — afraid of wa- 
ter." We left the meeting-house, and walked round to keep 
ourselves warm, and as the night was very cold concluded to 
go back to the yard. But, sailor-like, we had not once thought 
about getting past the sentinels without the countersign. 

After trying at the regular gates, and refused enframe by 
the sentinel, we made out to crawl in under an old fence, and 
we were now but little better off than we were when outside, 
and now had three sentinels to pass, before we could get to 
our sleeping place. And when we approached the first, were 
hailed, " Who comes there ? " " Friends." " Advance, friends, 
and give the countersign." We had no countersign, and 
stood at the point of the bayonet, until the corporal of the 
guard came. 



96 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

He demanded who Ave were, but would riot allow us to 
pass. There was no other way to get to the gunboat, but by 
swimming across a dock two hundred feet wide ; and then 
there was danger of being shot by the sentinels, if discov- 
ered, to say nothing about the risk of freezing, after we had 
left the water. 

We went off a short distance, got into an old shed, and 
crawled in among some shavings, and there shivered it out 
until morning ; it was truly a long night. 

We went on board our craft, made up a rousing fire, and 
after taking some hot coffee, were all right again. 

This affair rather cooled our devotion, so we went to no 
more evening meetings. 

The weather continued very cold, and we could do but lit- 
tle work in the yard. Our black cook had been detected in 
stealing from an officer, and was sent on board the boat in 
double irons, and there confined, which of course deprived us 
of his services, and himself, the use of his limbs ; for in con- 
sequence of his confinement both feet were frozen, and the 
groans of the poor fellow were really distressing. 

He was removed to the hospital, but lost both feet ; they 
were amputated soon after he entered the doctor's list. 
Truly " The ivay of the transgressor is hard" In consequence 
of a trifling theft, this man is a cripple for life. 

1 have previously stated that our gunboat was full of rats. 
They were so thick that while we slept they would run over us 
in all directions. We were obliged to hang our provisions 
up to one of the beams, and place a man with a club, to 
watch the bag until morninff. Our boat was also very 
leaky, and no one would take the trouble to pump her out. 
One night, just before we turned in, the water made its ap- 
pearance over the platform, andwhen we come to examine 
the pump, it was found to be choked and entirely useless. 
We concluded, however, to stay on board that night, and on 
the morrow to apply to the captain of the yard for other 
quarters. About twelve o'clock, one fellow got out of his 
hammock and found himself knee deep in water. He gave 
the alaim, all hands roused up, and before we could get all 
our clothes and bedding on deck, she heeled over and sunk. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 97 

I made a jump and got on board another boat that lay along- 
side ; and she was half full of water. The rest of the crew 
got off by means of the boat and some spars. In jumping 
on board the other boat, I fell on an iron belaying pin, and 
hurt myself severely. All this was in the night, it was quite 
dark and cold, but we made no noise. 

By the sinking of this boat many lives were lost, as might 
be seen by the floating bodies around her next morning. 
And as the gunboat had been condemned before we went 
on board of her, we now considered her condemnation as fully 
Rat-itied. The repairs on board the Firetily were now so 
far advanced that we, poor sunken fellows, had permission to 
take our hammocks and bags on board of her, and our meals 
on board the Cyane. 

As Commodore Porter had not vet assumed the command of 
the squadron formally, it devolved on Captain Wolcott 
Chauncey, brother of Commodore Isaac Chauncey, — he being 
the seignor captain among those of the Flying Squad- 
ron, and had come down from Lake Ontario to join the fleet. 
And he was a Tartar sure enough, as the following little in- 
cident will show. Two young men, who, I believe, were me- 
chanics' apprentices, had shipped for the squadron, and had 
been at the Navy Yard but a lew days, when, probably feel- 
ing a little homesick, took French leave one evening, and 
went over to the city. On the following morning, they were 
missed at muster, and their absence reported to Capt. Chaun- 
cey, who immediately sent a midshipman to find them. They 
were both found together, having met with some of their 
companions, and who had all been on a frolic. These young 
men were brought on board an old bomb ketch, and con- 
fined with double irons two days, and on the morning of the 
third, at nine o'clock, all hands were called along-side the 
ketch, to witness punishment. This was an interesting sight, 
and reminded me of the whipping through the fleet at Hali- 
fax. 

Here were about three hundred men, boys and marines, 

assembled round the old hulk to see these two young men 

nearly flayed alive, for going over to New York without 

leave. When all had assembled, the two prisoners were 

G 



98 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

brought from their place of confinement, apparently more 
dead than alive. The first was stripped and seized up. 

On these occasions, every man and officer stands with hats 
off, and perfectly silent, in order to show the supremacy of 
a law that cuts a man's flesh to pieces. 

Capt. Chauncey, standing on a slight elevation, and with 
a stentorian voice, thus addressed the crow T d : " Men ! what 

the law allows you, you shall have, but by the eternal 

if any one of you disobeys that law, Til cut your back bone 
out." " Go on with him, boatswain's mate and do your duty, 
or "by f you shall take his place." 

The shrieks of the youngster .were dreadful, calling upon 
God and all the holy angels to save him. xifter the first 
dozen, another boatswain's mate took the cat, and when he 
had received two dozen, he fainted, and hung by his wrists. 
The punishment was suspended for a few moments until he 
had revived sufficiently to stand on his feet ; he then took 
four dozen more, making six in all, and when taken down 
he could not stand. 

The other received seven dozen ; he fainted however, be- 
fore lie had received the first, and received the greater por- 
-ion of his punishment in that state. The flesh was fairly 
hanging in strips upon both backs ; it was really a sickening 

sight. 

The punishment being over, all went to their respective 
duties. The last I ever heard of this celebrated knight of 
the cat was, that he was employed at a very high salary in 
superintending the building and fitting out a frigate for the 

Greeks. 

Notwithstanding my previous determination to make the 
best of everything, and to become hardened to whatever 
might come along, discontent seemed to return again with 
additional force. I began to give a gloomy look into the 
future. The idea of being captured, and then of lingering 
in a British prison, and this horrid flogging, and the com- 
panions that I must pass the remainder of my servitude with. 
These feelings seemed to work like an avalanche upon me ; 
and there was a possibility that in my present position, 1 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 99 

might be flogged at the gangway, too, as many a man has been, 
without knowing for what. 

I was heartily disgusted with everything that belonged 
to a man-of-war ; and after a night's deliberation, came to a 
fixed determination, that I would desert, and get into some 
foreign country, and there remain until I had accumulated 
something ; and probably by that time I should be forgotten, 
and could then return to my native country. 

Accordingly I took from my bag some letters and other 
small matters, and made known my intention to a particular 
friend, and gave my bag into his charge. 

At sundown, a boat went' to the city for the officers, who 
had been on liberty during the day. 

I watched the opportunity, after the boat had been called 
away, to get into her and to stow myself forward, and as it 
was rather dark, I was not seen by the midshipman who had 
charge of the boat. As soon as she touched the wharf at 
New York, I jumped out, and just as I had got upon my 
feet, the midshipman sang out, " Who's that ? " But I was 
soon among the crowd upon the wharf, and went up to the 
house of a friend, who was not then at home ; but I commu- 
nicated the whole matter to his wife, who was an excellent 
and kind lady, and who had always manifested much inter- 
est for mv welfare. When I had got through with my story, 
she begged, with tears streaming from her eyes, that I would 
abandon this dreadful determination, and return to the brig. 
She could not endure the idea of my being a deserter from 
the United States Navy, and, if ever taken, would, in all 
probability, be subject to severe punishment. These argu- 
ments, and such visible demonstrations of regard for my future 
happiness, weighed heavily with me. 

I could hardly refrain from tears myself, and very soon 
my friend came in, and when I made known the affair to 
him, he insisted on my immediate return. 

I spent the night with this kind family, and on the fol- 
lowing morning, went back, without having been missed. 
Still there was a fixed gloom that hung over me. This spell, 
or infatuation, or whatever it might be called, was like an 
incubus that bore me down. I was like one determined on 



1 00 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

self-destruction, and seeking a place and an opportunity for 
its consummation. 

I kept busy at my work, and received the kindest treat- 
ment from Mr. Barnwell, as well as from every officer on 

board the brio-. There was a rumor among the seamen that 

i . . 

Mr. Barnwell was to be removed to another ship, which, al- 
though it caused me some little regret, was without founda- 
tion, at least, for the present. My mind still brooded over 
my unhappy condition, and again I was determined to leave 
the navy, and also to leave the country. 

I obtained permission to go to New York, and managed 
to get my clothes bag on shore, and deposited it with Jack 
Anderson's wife. I crossed the ferry, and had no sooner 
stepped out of the ferry-boat, than a strong feeling of self- 
reproach came over me,, which nearly staggered me in this 
foolish resolution. Mr. Barnwell had given me liberty to be 
absent twenty-four hours : his treatment to me had been like 
that of a kind father, and now to requite this good feeling 
by desertion, seemed to be the heighth of ingratitude. All 
this made me half determined to re-cross the ferrv. 

I thought if I could find a friend into whose ear I could 
pour my trouble, and obtain from him some consoling ad- 
vice, even that would make me happy. 

I went to the Bull's Head Inn, in the Bowery, the depot 
for wagons that plied between New York and Boston, (as 
the water communication was cut oft' by the British cruisers) 
and found that a wagon would start next morning by day- 
light. I saw the driver, and bargained with him to carry 
me to Boston, and for which I was to give him my pea-jacket. 

1 did not awake the next morning until after the hour at 
which the wagon was to start; so, of course, 1 lost my pas- 
sage : but such a night as I passed cannot be described ; 
what with horrid dreams and direful forebodings, I was nearly 
distracted. I spent the day in walking round the wharves, 
as no wagon started until the next day. I did not at this 
time go near my former friend, who so kindly dissuaded me 
before but I called on another, an elderly gentleman, and 
to whom I told my story. He happened to be the friend I 
had been seeking, and he urged me by all means to abandon 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 101 

this rash alternative, and serve my time out honorably, and 
then I should have nothing to embitter my future life. He 
offered me any assistance that lay in his power, which offer 
I gratefully received, and at the same time assured him that 
T needed nothing but advice. I had plenty of money, and 
putfUj ■' good clothing, and that all I wanted was to be re- 
conciled to my unhappy condition. He urged upon me very 
forcibly his own opinion, backed up with his long experience, 
that all things came out right in the end, if our intentions 
were pure ; and my conversation with this good old man caused 
me again to waver in my present intention. 

On the afternoon of the second day of my absence from 
the brig, I met AVilson, who had just come over from the 
Navy Yard. Mr. Barnwell had enquired for me, and he had 
told him that I was sick, and at the house of a friend in 
New York. Mr. Barnwell sent him for me, with orders to 
have me brought over if I was able to stand. 

Jack and I understood the whole affair, and I went with 
him to the Navy Yard, and quietly on board the brig, and 
resumed the job on which I had been at work, when I went 
ashore. Next morning, Mr. Barnwell came to me, and en- 
quired about my health, to all of which I replied in a satis- 
factory manner. 

In the afternoon, he called me on the quarter-deck, and 
said he, " I observe that you are a young man of good habits, 
and acquainted with your business ; I have also observed 
that you are active and get quickly through any job you 
undertake, and shall appoint you carpenter of this brig ; your 
official appointment I will hand you to-morrow ; and that I 
feel a pleasure in doing this from what I have seen of you 
since your attachment to the Navy." He then gave me 
twenty dollars and liberty to go over to New York. All this 
seemed to me like a dream, and yet it was real ; my trouble 
was over ! I was now a warrant officer — out of the reach 
of the lash — had a comfortable state-room, and a boy to wait 
upon me. Truly, this was a metamorphosis. 

Just as the Flying Squadron was well equipped, and all 
ready for sea, peace was proclaimed between England and 
the United States. This of course put a new phase upon 



102 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

everything, The voice of war was hushed, and all warlike 
preparations, such as fitting out privateers, enlisting soldiers, 
&c., now suddenly terminated. Business of another kind 
now sprung up, such as the repairing and fitting out merchant 
ships. The Sound was now clear, and all things began to 
wear a cheerful aspect. The Flying Squadron, with the Con- 
stellation, Macedonian, and Gueriere frigates, and Ontario, 
and Epervier sloops-of-war, were all anchored oif the Bat- 
tery. 

For some years past, the Dey of Algiers had committed 
frequent depredations upon American merchantmen ; had 
captured several Mediterranean traders, and still held their 
crews in slavery. These depredations were now to be pun- 
ished in a summary manner, the United States having 
formally declared war against the regency of Algiers. We 
also had demands against the governments of Tripoli and 
Tunis, for permitting the capture of American vessels in 
their harbors by the British during the late war. 

The fleet was placed under the command of Com. Decatur, 
was destined for Algiers, and to sail in a few days, or as 
soon as the diplomatic matters could be arranged at Wash- 
ington. The fleet had left their moorings off the Battery, 
and had anchored near Sandy Hook. 

One evening, while sitting in my state-room, a marine 
(sea soldier,) came to the door and asked if he could speak 
with me a few minutes. I answered yes, invited him in, 
and he then commenced the following story: 

" You know, sir, that 1 go by the name of Cribbs, but that 
is not my true name. Now, sir. if you will allow me to tell 
my story, which you may rely upon as truth, you will soon 
learn how T came by the name of Cril>!>s. Last December I 
arrived at New York from Madras. We run by the block- 
ading ships in the night, and took a pilot just outside the 
Hook. My native place is Say brook, Connecticut. I had 
been absent fifteen months. I loft a wife, but no children. 
After r had boon paid off, I went on board a sloop bound to 

ybrook, and agreed with the captain to work my passage 
home. In order to keep out of the way of the cruisers, he al- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 103 

ways started at night and kept close in shore, and used their 
sweeps or long oars, and I being a sailor, the skipper was glad 
to have rae. After breakfast I took my chest on board, and 
meant to stay there myself. The captain said to me, that 
the strap of his throat halliard block was broken, and he 
wished to have it repaired before he sailed, and asked me to 
go up and send it down. I immediately went up for that 
purpose, and had just commenced unhooking the block, when 
I heard a talking on deck, and on looking down, saw that 
they were all looking up at me, and at the same time the 
captain hailed me, saying that there were two men that 
wished to see me. 

" I came down, and one of them asked me ' if my name 
was John Cribbs ? ? 

11 1 answered, ' no; my name is Jones/ 

" ' Well, we want you to go with us, as far as Market 
street. ' 

" * Go with you ? who ars you?' 

" ' We believe you are a deserter from the marine corps of 
the United States, and we wish you to go with us, and if you 
are not the man, then there will be no harm done.' 

" The captain of the sloop said that I had better go, and 
show them that I was not the man they were in search of. I 
had then in my possession four treasury notes, of twenty 
dollars each, the amount of my wages, which 1 had tied up 
in a corner of my black handkerchief, that I wore about my 
neck, and in my pocket, about three dollars in pennies and small 
paper bills. I went with these fellows, they keeping one on 
each side of me. I was carried to the United States rendez- 
vous for the marine corps, and put into a back room, which 
was locked upon me and a guard placed at the door. 

" I sat down on the floor, wondering what all this meant. I 
had nothing to eat or drink all that dav, nor a bed on which 
to sleep at night. 

" Early next morning, a sergeant and two marines came in 
and told me I must go to the Navy Yard. I swore I would 
not go, and demanded an explanation. The sergeant told 
me that resistance was of no use, as he could call twenty men 



104 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

if necessary. I asked him what right they had to imprison 
me ; I had never been in the United States service, and 
could prove where I had been during every year of my life. 
I was then told that I must go, and if I was peaceable should 
not be ironed, but if I attempted to escape I should be shot. 
I had eaten nothing since yesterday morning ; I felt hungry 
and demanded food. They gave me part of a small loaf, 
a piece of cheese, and half a tumbler of gin. I then went 
with them over to the Navy Yard, and was there put in irons 
under charge of a sentinel. I asked for pen and paper, and 
was told that these things were not allowed to prisoners. I had 
hard work to persuade myself that I was not dreaming. 

" I remained here in confinement until one morning the ser- 
geant came in, knocked off my irons, and told me I was to go 
on board the frigate President. I was washed and shaved, 
and a suit of marine uniform given me, with orders to put it 
on and be ready for drill at eleven o'clock. All this I did, 
because I could not help myself; a musket was given me, 
and I was placed by the corporal in the ranks, and I sol- 
emnly swear that this was the first time in my life that I 
ever had on a soldier's dress, or ever handled a musket as a 
soldier. 

" Mvself and nineteen others were put on board the frigate 
President. She was bound on a cruise round Cape Horn, but 
on sroin"- out, vou know we struck on the bar and injured 
our keel, which very much hindered our sailing. We fell in 
with the English Fleet, Pomone, Endymion and Majestic, 
and, after a hard-fought action, we were captured and carried 
to Bermuda. We were exchanged, and came to New York 
in the John Adams. I have been in the barracks ever since 
my return, have written once to Commodore Decatur, but 
have received no answer. I have now been ordered to this 
brig, and when I shall be liberated I know not. 

I looked him full in the face, and said I to him : " Cribbs, 
do you tell the truth ? Is what you have told me positively 
true ?" " Yes, sir, on my oath," and then made a solemn app \al 
confirmatory of what he had told me. " And now, sir, what 
I wish you to do for me, if you please, and which 1 shall 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 105 

consider a great favor, is that you will state my case to some 
lawyer in New York before we sail on this cruise." I re- 
plied that I would give him the form of a letter to Mr. 
Emmet, probably one of the best lawyers in New York, 
and would prefer that the writing should be in his own 
hand. I gave him the use of my writing materials, and 
also assisted him in getting his letter to the city, which went 
up in the morning boat, and on that same evening after he 
had been relieved from his post, I called him into my room 
and asked him if he could, in any way, account for this 
strange affair. He said that he could only account for it in 
this way : " The day after I was paid off I went to a board- 
ing-house, (I think in Y\ r ater street) kept by a man named 
Sweeney, and while we were sitting in the bar-room, a good- 
looking man came in and asked if any one would like to 
enter the United States service, either as seaman, marine or 
landsman ; and out of a joke, I asked what were the wages. 
He said seamen got twelve dollars a month and twenty dol- 
lars bounty ; ordinary seamen and landsmen something less. 
' And how much do marines get? ' said I. ' Eight dollars 
and their clothing.' This fellow now went off, and after he 
had gone, Sweeney, the landlord, observed, " That fellow is 
a — pimp ; his business is to go round and hunt up de- 
serters, for which he gets a large reward.' Now, Sweeney- 
knew that I was going home, and also hmv I was going; 
and whether it was not a contrived plan to entrap me I cannot 
say. I had been told that he was not the most honest man 
in the world, as many sailors could also testify. This is the 
only way that I can account for my imprisonment. I was 
pounced upon as a deserter, and it may be that this fellow 
obtained a reward for my pretended apprehension." 

On the following morning a boat came from the Gueriere, 
with an order from Commodore Decatur for John Cribbs ; he 
was put in double irons on board the Gueriere and this was 
the last I ever heard of John Cribbs. Mr. Emmet had, no 
doubt, written to Commodore Decatur about the man, and in 
order that the case might be properly investigated, the Com- 
modore had sent for him for that purpose ; but why he was 



10G AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

ironed I cannot tell. We got under way on the next day 
and thus ends the storv of John Cribbs. 

I will only add, that if the statement which he gave me 
was true, and of which I have not the slightest doubt, it 
goes to show a most mysterious, hut successful piece of vil- 
lany, and for which, if justice be done him, he will have a 
claim against the United States for immense damages. 



\ 



CHAPTER V. 

Fleet sail,— Firefly dismasted in a gale,— Return to New York,— Receive 
a warrant as carpenter in the navy,— Refit,— Sail again, — Cruelty of a 
lieutenant, — Fall in with a strange sail in the night,— Passionate be- 
havior of the captain, — Remarks, — Enter the Straits of Gibraltar, — 
Pass the Rock,— Arrive at Carthagena, Receive intelligence of the 
capture of an Algerine frigate by our squadron— Fleet appears off Algiers, 

Treaty,— Consul established,— American captives delivered up, — Put 

on board the Epervier, and sail for home,— Their extreme joy at their 
deliverance,— They all perish at sea,— Fleet arrive at Carthagena,— 
Firefly ordered to Gibraltar,— Sickness of the crew,— Cause— I have 
orders to obtain a spar from the clock-yard,— Meet a great personage, 
who gets cooled down,— Politeness of Mr. Sprague,— Explore the 
rock,— Remarks,— Arrival of the fleet,— Officers shifted,—! am ordered 
to the Ontario,— Ships,— Sail for home,— Sail for Tangier,— Return to 
Gibraltar,— Fleet sails for Port Mahon,— Receive intelligence that 
the Dey had broken the treaty,— Proceed to Algiers,— Make prep- 
arations to burn their fleet,— Betrayed by a Frenchman,— Apology by 
the Dey, — Treaty resumed,— Cowardly management of the Dutch, — 
Return to Port Mahon,— Obtain permission to refit our ships at the 
arsenal,— Assist in fitting out the Ferdinand,— Miserable condition of 
the Spanish Navy, and of naval officers,— Small pox breaks out on 
board the Ontario,— Filthy marines,— Lord Exmouth's Fleet,— Sad 
from Port Mahon, -Wreck of the Ferdinand in a severe levanter, — 
We arrive at Tarragona,— Vows of a Catholic lady passenger _ during 
the gale,— Its performance,— Arrive at Carthagena,— Examine the 
dock-yard,— Receive intelligence of the fate of seventy American sea- 
men that were on board the Ferdinand,— They were carried to Algiers, 
—Sail from Carthagena to Algiers,— Account of the wreck of the Fer- 
dinand, — American seamen taken off by the Erie. 

While the Firefly was fitting at the Navy Yard, I had 
• provided a large quantity of mast-fishes* and shot-plugs, and 

* Mast-fishes are long pieces of oak, hollowed and fitted in such a 
manner that if a mast or spar of any kind is broken or injured, by 
a shot from an enemy's gun, the fish is bound with lashings round the 
injured spar, so that it may be strong enough to bear the sail. A fish is 
to a mast what a splint is to a broken limb. 



108 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

one of our " built/ " lieutenants, of whom I shall again have 
occasion to speak and to bring before the reader, whenever 
he had the morning watch, and while the decks w^p 
washing, would give a very emphatic order to " wash v . 
round that — lumber," and would begin to curse because 
the deck was lumbered up with so much " useless trash." 
This was always intended for me to hear, as I had been 
blamed from the time it first came on board ; but wait a 
little while and see what became of this useless lumber. 

The Firefly was commanded by George Eodgers, Esq., 
brother of Commodore Eodgers. He was an excellent man, 
and subsequently showed his friendship for me. Our first 
lieutenant was David Geisinger, now one of our oldest com- 
modores. Also an excellent man, and for whom I shall 
alwavs have the highest esteem. 

On the 10th of May, 1815, as I have already stated, the 
fleet got under way and stood to sea in regular order, with 
a fine westerly breeze, which continued until we reached the 
gulf, when we took a heavy S.E. gale, which commenced at 
about 10 P. M., and the next morning, about 2 o'clock, we 
were on the Eastern Edge, ha vino; run during the night and 
up to that time under close-'reefed top-sails, and now it com- 
menced blowing a perfect hurricane. 

The brig, when in smooth water, was very low, her gun- 
deck being only about eighteen inches from the water's edge, 
our armament consisted of twelve IS lb. cannonades, and 
two long eighteens amidships, and two long eighteens on 
pivots. She was also very heavily sparred, and, being built 
for a privateer, was not very strong. She was, however, a 
fast sailer and a good vessel. 

The sea ran very high ; the hurricane raged with unabat- 
ed fury, attended with heavy thunder and lightning, and 
torrents of rain. 

The brig labored very much, and was continually under 
water. At daylight I had gone below to shift my wet cloth- 
ing, and had hardly got to my room when the boatswain's 
mate came running down, to tell me that the foremast was 
sprung. I jumped directly up, and, sure enough, the mast 
was broken in several places. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 109 

Captain Kodgers had gone below to get some rest, having 
been on deck all night. Mr. Geisinger, with every other 
officer, were doing their best, I reported to him the state of 
the foremast. " Well, sir," said he, " do the best you can 
with it." The top-gallant masts were already housed, but 
the top-masts were on end, the weight of which very much 
endangered the mast ; but to get them down was out of the 



.•stion. 



quest. 

' Our rigging, which had been put over the mast heads in 
cold weather, had now now become so slack that it was very 
little support to the masts. 

But it was no time now to reflect upon what had been 
done. Our business now was to do something for the preserva- 
tion of our lives. 

I called my carpenter's crew, four in number, around me, 
we knocked out the mast wedges, and in the meantime the 
boatswain's mates were clearing away the mast-fishes, this 
" useless lumber" and others, were passing the lashings around 
the masts, all ready for securing the fishes. 

I requested the gunner to get up four of his largest gun 
tackles, two on each side, and haul them taut with jiggers; 
this was soon done although she was wallowing in the sea, at 
such a rate that it was almost impossible to hold on. The fishes 
were put in their places. I got into a bowline, and was 
hoisted high enough to fasten the heads with spikes ; with a 
maul in one hand and spikes in the other, and contriving to 
hold on, so that, when I swung against the mast, I could hit 
the spike ; but before they were fastened, my poor body was 
badly pounded against the broken stick. 

In two hours we had it secure, or at least, we were not 
afraid of its going over t}ie side. Our attention was now 
called to the mainmast, which was broken one-third off 
under the saddle. We unshipped the main boom, and got up 
two large tackles on each side, as we did with the fore- 
mast, and with much difficulty managed to set up two 
shrouds on each side, and fished it firmly, now with the fishes 
on both masts, well spiked and woolded, we felt that we could 
get short sail on both. 

The gale now began to abate. None of the fleet had 



110 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

been seen since the evening before, and the last ship we saw 
was the Macedonian frigate ; she passed close by, and to lee- 
ward of ns ; and was under a close-reefed maintop-sail, and fore 
and mainstorm stay-sails. She had met with some damage to 
her main rigging, which they were repairing. And while 
lying in this apparently destitute condition, we fired min- 
ute guns for about four hours, but concluded that, in all 
probability there was nothing within hearing of our guns, 
so it was of no use to waste powder. Towards sunset it 
ceased blowing ; and the clouds indicated fair weather. 

On the morrow, we commenced getting sail on her, the 
bowsprit was broken nearly off at the knight heads ; but it 
held on, and was of some service ; we set a top-gallant-sail 
on each top-mast, and two close-reefed top-sails below, and 
turned her head for New York; and in fine weather, we 
could set small sails about in any direction where they would 
draw. 

It was very fortunate for us that neither of the masts 
went over the side, for had that been the case we should 
have inevitably gone to the bottom ; for the mast in falling 
would have cut through the side, and being under water as 
w r e were, nothing, but the All-powerful arm of Jehovah, could 
have saved us ; and had it not been for the fishes, the masts 
could never have been kept on end. And much also de- 
ponded on the promptness and the alacrity, with which all this 
was done. 

On the second day, after we had got pretty well to rights 
again, Capt. Rodgers sent for me to come on the quarter- 
deck. 

Said he to me, " Young man,* how long have you been in 
the United States service?" 

" Since October, sir." 

"What is your age?" 

11 Nearly twenty-two, sir." 

"Well sir; allow me to say, you are one of the most ac- 
tive men I have ever met with, and it is to your exertions, 

* Capt. Rodgers had joined the brig only a few days before we sailed, 
and had not yet become acquainted with but few of his officers, which 
was the reason of his addressing me as young man. 




UNITED STATES BRIG, FIREFLY, IN A GALE, MAY 18th, 1815. 



112 AUTOBIOGR APHY. 

that we are indebted for the preservation of this brig, and I 
may also add of our lives too ; and it shall be my first business, 
if we arrive safe in New York, to obtain for you a warrant 
from the President of the United States." 

I thanked him, bowed, and retired. 

1 soon saw that this compliment caused some little jealousy 
or envy from my messmates, the gunner and boatswain, but 
it soon wore off, and we were on the best terms, and in six- 
teen days arrived safely in New York. 

Now with regard to the compliment paid me by Captain 
Eodgers, and injustice to myself, and without assuming to be 
egotistical, had I not have taken right hold, and in one 
sense assumed the whole charge of securing the masts, they 
would have gone over as sure as the world. 

The first lieutenant's place was on the quarter-deck, and* 
there was not a soul among the rest of the officers that knew 
anything about fishing a mast, or what to have done, in this 
emergency ; for the very first step towards their security, was 
knocking out the wedges, in order that the mast might have 
longer play ; and it will be seen in the course of my narra- 
tive, that this was not the only scene where " useless lumber " 
was the means of saving valuable lives. 

We arrived at Brooklyn Navy Yard on the 1st of June. 
Capt. Rodgers wrote to Washington, and in six days my 
warrant came, which he presented me on the quarter-deck of 
the brig, with many compliments, and good wishes. 

A Court of Inquiry was held at the navy yard, by officers 
sent from Washington for that purpose, to investigate the 
proceedings of Capt. Bodgers during, and subsequent to the 
gale. His conduct was highly approved, and a vote of ap- 
probation given in his favor. 

On the 5th of July we were all right again, and the little 
brig looked beautifully. We sailed with a fine south-west 

* I saw that I must take the most hazardous part in this affair, while 
the rest of the carpenters were making wedges and cleats for the lashings, 
which, considering the rolling of the vessel was of itself a difficult job. 
I hung, more than half an hour, thumping against the mast, and drove six- 
teen spikes while in this perilous position, for had the mast gone over while 
I was hanging in the bowline, in all probability, 1 should have been killed. 



1 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 113 

wind, for Carthagena, in Spain, the port fixed upon as the 
rendezvous, in case of separation. On the sixth day out, we 
fell in with another gale, though nothing like the other ; 
even had it heen so, we wore now in a much better condition 
to meet it than we were before. 

Then, our rigging was slack, and our masts were made 
of single sticks ; but now, our rigging was newly fitted, and 
our masts were built, and in fact, everything was in much 
better order than before. 

I told the reader that I meant to show up the " useless lum- 
ber man " again, and here he is. During the gale it was 
his watch from 8 to 12 in the morning. I was sitting on the 
forward pivot gun, and a man named Tom Burns, a fine 
fellow, and a good sailor, was sitting just under me. This 
gallant officer came puffing along, for he was quite fat, and 
says to Burns, " Go up and secure that staysail." It had 
blown out of the netting, and was getting loose. " Aye, aye, 
sir," said Burns. He went up and hauled it in as well as 
he could, and, as he thought, secured it. 

In about half an hour afterwards, this noble lieutenant 
came forward again, and looking up, saw that a small corner 
of the sail had got out of the netting. He sung out, " You 

Burns, you scoundrel, didn't I send you up to stop that 

sail ? " " Yes, sir." " Well, come here. Boatswain's mate." 
" Sir." " Come here. Take your jacket off sir," to Burns. 
The boatswain's mate then put a dozen into him. " Now go 
up and see if you can stow that sail in a proper manner." 
Burns, while going up the rigging, merely said, " I thought 
I did my best before." I heard what he said. " What's 
that you say? Grumbling again, are you? Come down 
here, sir. Boatswain's mate." "Sir." " Come here. Take 
off your jacket, sir," to Burns. The poor fellow took another 
dozen, and then went up and tried again ; and when he came 
down, he sat in the same place on the gun carriage, which 
gave me an opportunity of looking down his back, which was 
covered with blood, and he was then giving vent to a copious 
flood of tears. This was the useless lumber man. 

One night, when we were within a short distance of Cape 
Trafalgar, a sail was seen on our weather bow, apparently 



II 



114 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

coming towards us. It was reported to the captain, who was 
almost instantly on deck ; we beat to quarters, and, notwith- 
standing everything preparatory to action was going ahead 
with the utmost expedition, the captain was nearly frantic 
with anxiety, supposing the stranger to be an Algerine. 

The two long guns in the waist, amidships, were usually 
run in and secured in a fore and aft position. The crews be- 
lonoino" to these o-uns were at work like good fellows, clear- 
ing away, and getting them round. But it seemed that the 
impatience of the captain knew no bounds ; he seized hold 
of a long rammer, and being a powerful man, commenced 
banging away, right auiong them, as though he meant to 
break every bone in their bodies ; and poor Burns, who hap- 
pened to be one the crew of the larboard gun, got a blow on 
the loins which disabled him from further duty. The ram- 
mer was applied indiscriminately, and I came near being one 
the lucky ones, as my station at quarters was at the pumps, 
and right abreast of this gun ; and as it was quite dark, and 
the captain being so blinded with rage, that he did not know 
who he hit. 

But after all the fuss, the strange sail proved to be nothing 
more than a Portuguese polacca. 

Notwithstanding the many good qualities which Capt. 
Rodgers possessed, he was a very passionate man ; aud being 
very powerful, it gave him frequent opportunities of display- 
ing his great strength. One day, a very large Dutchman, 
whose grog had been stopped for some offence, went att to 
ask the captain to please to let him have his grog again, 
stating Ins innocence of the crime for which it was stopped. 
The man told his story, when the captain up fist and hit him 
between the two eyes, and sent him his length flat upon deck. 
It appeared that the fellow was rather impudent in his ad- 
dress, using improper language. 

I would further remark, that we never find perfection, 
either in man or woman, whatever may be the sphere of life 
in which they move. Neither do we often find perfect uni- 
formity in conduct ; the bravest men are sometimes timid ; 
the most discreet and judicious sometimes make the most 
egregious blunders ; and we soldom read an impartial de- 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 115 

scription of any noted character, that does not seem to be 
almost a paradox. Over against a virtue will be set a prom- 
inent weakness, as in the lives of Chief Justice Hale, and 
Cotton Mather, both of whom assisted in the condemnation 
and execution of witches. Sir Isaac Newton was a believer 
in alchemy, and with his relative, Dr. Newton, set up furnaces, 
and were some months engaged in searching for the philos- 
opher's stone. And yet no men, perhaps, ever lived, that 
possessed more brilliant ideas, than those whom I have just 
named. 

Observation induces me to make these remarks, and I ap- 
ply them more particularly to the navy. 

Capt. Rodgers was, without doubt, a brave man ; and, had 
there been an opportunity of testing his courage, I think he 
would have acquitted himself with honor to his country. 
But he was passionate, and in a paroxysm of rage, what might 
he not do? Even in the circumstance of the gun — here 
were two or three men rendered unfit for service, and one 
probably injured for life. 

And if the strange sail had been an enemy, would these 
men have fought at their gun with the same animation, as 
they would have done had they not been thus beaten ? I 
answer at once, No. That gun would have been useless ! 

But Capt, Rodgers was an amiable man, after all. He 
was a finished gentleman ; courteous and kind to all, from 
the first lieutenant to the smallest waiting boy ; and though 
now numbered with the dead, I shall always remember him 
with the highest emotions of esteem and respect; and not 
merely for his kindness to me, but for his general deportment 
as an officer of the United States Navy. 

We passed Gibraltar on the 10th of August, and anchored 
at Carthagena on the 14th. Here we found an Algerine 
brig-of-war, which had been captured by our Squadron, and 
sent in here for the present. The American Consul came 
off to us as soon as we had anchored, and as we were quar- 
antined, communicated the following intelligence while seated 
in his boat : " The fleet were hourly expected in this harbor ; 
Commodore Decatur had concluded a treaty of peace with 
the government of Algiers, and had gone from thence to 



^ 



116 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Tunis and Tripoli, to settle matters with those governments." 
He then gave a short detail of the doings of the fleet after 
entering the Mediterranean. On their way from Gibraltar 
to Algiers, they fell in with an Algerine frigate, which they 
captured after a hard resistance on her part, and sent her 
into Carthagena. The fleet then appeared off Algiers on 
the 20th of "June, 1815. 

A flag of truce was hoisted on hoard the Gueriere, with 
the Swedish flag* at the main. A boat soon came off with 
Mr. Norderling, Swedish consul, and the captain of the port, 
to whom we communicated the intelligence of the capture of 
the frigate and brig, which greatly surprised him ; and he 
expressed to Mr. Norderling much anxiety for the other ships 
of their squadron, from whom nothing had been heard for 
some time. 

The captain of the port was also informed that a very large 
addition to our fleet was daily expected, consisting of several 
line of battle ships, and four frigates. The captain of the 
port requested a statement of the conditions on which we 
would make peace, when the following letter was then hand- 
ed him : 
" The American Commissioners to the I)ey of Algiers : 

The undersigned have the honor to inform His Highness, 
the Hey of Algiers, that they have been appointed by the 
President of the United States of America, Commissioners 
Plenipotentiary to treat for peace witli His Highness. And 
that pursuant to their instruction, they are ready to open a 
negotiation for the restoration of peace and harmony between 
the two countries, on terms just and honorable to both par- 
ties ; and they feel it incumbent on them to state explicitly 
to His Highness, that they are instructed to treat upon no 
other principle than that of perfect equality, and on the 
terms of the most favored nations. No stipulation for pay- 
ing anv tribute to Algiers, under any form whatever, will be 
agreed to. The undersigned have the honor to transmit 
herewith a copy of the treaty, from the President of the "Uni- 
ted States of America, and avail themselves of this occasion 
to ass are His Highness of their high consideration and pro- 
found respect." 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 117 

The captain of the port then requested that hostilities 
should cease, pending the negotiation, and that persons au- 
thorized to treat should go on shore, he and Mr. Norderling 
both affirming that the minister of marines had pledged 
himself for their security and return to the ships, when they 
pleased. Both these propositions were rejected, and they 
were explicitly informed that the negotiations must be car- 
ried on on board the fleet, and that hostilities, as far as they 
respected vessels, could not cease. They returned on shore, 
and on the following day the same persons returned and in- 
formed us that they were commissioned by the Dey to treat 
with us on the proposed basis, and they appeared extremely 
anxious to conclude the peace immediately. The treaty was 
then brought forward, which the Commissioners declared 
would not be departed from in substance, at the same time 
declaring that although the United States would never stip- 
ulate for paying tribute under any form whatever ; yet, that 
they were a magnanimous and generous nation, who would, 
upon the presentation of consuls, do what was customary with 
other great nations, in their friendly intercourse withAlgiers. 

The treaty was then examined, and they were of opinion 
that it would not be agreed to in its present form, and particu- 
larly requested that the article requiring the restitution of the 
property they had captured, and which had been distributed, 
might be expunged, alleging that such a demand had never 
before been made upon Algiers. To this it was answered 
that the claim was just, and would be adhered to. They 
then asked, whether, if the treaty should be signed by the 
Dey, we would engage to restore the captured vessels, which 
was refused. They then represented that it was not the 
present Dey, Omar Pacha, who had declared the war which 
they acknowledged, to be unjust, conceding that they were 
wholly in the wrong, and had no excuse, and requested us to 
take the case of the Dey into consideration, and upon his 
asreeino; to terms with us more favorable than had ever be- 
fore been made with any other nation, to restore the ships, 
which thev stated would be of little or no value to us, but 
would be great of importance to him, as they would satisfy the 



118 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

people with the conditions of peace we were going to conclude 
with him. 

The commissioners consulted upon this question, and de- 
termined that, considering the state of those vessels, the sums 
that would he required to fit them for a passage to the United 
States and the little probability of selling them in this part of 
the world, they would make a compliment of them to His 
Highness in the state they then were, the commodore enga- 
ging to furnish them with an escort to this port. This how- 
ever would depend upon their signing the treaty as presented 
to them, and could not appear as an article of it, must be con- 
sidered as a favor conferred on the Dey by the United States. 
They then requested a truce to deliberate upon the terms of 
the proposed treaty, which was refused. They then pleaded 
for three hours. The reply was : 

"Not a minute ; if your squadron appears in sight before 
the treaty is signed by the Dey, and the prisoners actually 
off, he should capture them." 

It was finally agreed that hostilities should cease. They 
then went on shore, and in three hours we perceived their 
boat coming oif with a white flag hoisted. The Swedish 
consul pledging his word not to hoist it unless the treaty was 
signed and the prisoners in the boat, they had returned to 
the shore, which was five miles distant, they came back with 
the treaty signed as it had been concluded, bringing also a 
part of the prisoners. While they were absent, a corvette 
with a large amount of money on board, hove in sight, which 
in one hour more would have been captured. The Dey was 
aware of this, and the fear of losing his fleet hastened him 
on to sign this treaty, which he violated in less than three 
months afterwards. 

Mr. William Shaler was appointed United States Consul 
for the regency of Algiers, and established his residence on 
shore. The prisoners were all delivered up and put on board 
the sloop-of-war Epcrvicr, with orders to proceed to the United 
States. She was never heard of afterwards, and these poor fel- 
lows, with my good friend Barnwell, went to the bottom. How 
mysterious are the ways of Divine Providence. These un- 
fortunate men, who had endured the rigors and cruelties 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 119 

of Algerine slavery, some of them for more than two years ; 
and when they were liberated and told they were going 
home, they cried for joy, believing it must be a dream ; but 
they were not to see home. Many of them had wives and 
mothers, brothers and sisters ; and some had families, I 
believe, in Massachusetts. Often did their hearts swell with 
gratitude to God for their deliverance from cruel bondage, 
and the prospect of soon embracing their loved ones. But it 
was not to be — the ocean was their grave. No headstones 
could tell their burial place, nor mound on which to place 
the passion flower, or shed the tear of affectionate memory. 
The howling blast their funeral dirge, and the briny wave 
their winding-sheet. Poor fellows, may you in the morn- 
ing of the resurrection awake to a happy immortality, where 
there shall be no more prisons, no more shipwrecks. The 
fleet arrived at Carthagena a few days after we had obtained 
pratique. The Firefly was then ordered to Gibraltar, with 
despatches to our Consul ; also, to order a new top-sail yard 
for the Independence, and to be ready on her arrival there. , 

Proceeding according to orders, we arrived there late in 
the evening, ran in, and anchored off the Ragged Staff, and 
very near the English frigate, Undaunted. She was light 
and high up. Our little brig looked like a boat under her 
stern, and while they were washing decks on board the frig- 
ate in the morning, an officer standing on the taffrail, looked 
down upon our deck, and by way of derision, says : " Hook 
our davit tackles on your little boat, and we'll hoist you out 
of water." An old fellow on our forecastle, who had been a 
Marblehead fisherman, just turned his eye up to this noble 
Briton, and dryly observed : " The Guerierre and Macedonian 
will be in to-day, sir, and you had better hook one of those 
on. The officer stepped down, and was seen no more upon 
the taffrail. 

Early on the following morning, the officer of the watch 
sent our boat to the watering place for a few casks of water 
for present use. The scuttle butt was filled from these casks, 
and no other water was used. 

At about eleven o'clock, A. M., several of the men were 
taken with a violent pain in the bowels, and it was not long 



1 20 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

before nearly all hands were down, many of them writhing in 
great agony. Then the officer of the deck was taken, and 
before twelve o'clock, nearly every soul on board the brig, 
myself included, were in the most excruciating agony. 

The doctor, who also was slightly attacked, was flying 
round, administering doses, and doing all in his power to 
relieve their suffering. A boat's crew was mustered, and a 
message sent on shore, informing the captain of the affair. 
He came off immediately, and was much alarmed ; but all 
were now fast recovering, and at four, P. ftL, all was right 
again. 

It was subsequently ascertained that the water pipes at 
the landing place were of lead, and our boat was the first 
there. The officers of the boat did not know that it was 
necessary to let the pipes run a short time before receiving 
the water in the casks, so we thus drank what had been 
standing all night in the pipes, which being impregnated 
with lead, caused the difficulty anion g our crew. 

On the next day after the disaster, 1 went on shore to get 
from the American Consul an order for a maintop-sail yard 
for the U. S. Ship Independence. The yard was to be ready 
against her arrival at Gibraltar, which would probably be 
in a few days. The consul gave me the necessary order ac- 
companying it, with a note of introduction to the command- 
ant of the royal dock-yard. 

When I reached the yard, ascertaining that the com- 
mandant had gone to his residence, it being his dinner hour, 
I proceeded to his house, rang the bell, requested the servant 
to sav to Mr. Pownal that I wished to see him directly. 
This great personage made his appearance ; 1 handed him 
the order for the spar, also my note of introduction. 

lie then straightened himself up, and with an indignant 
scowl, demanded why 1 had come to his house on business of 
this -nature. "Do you know, sir, that we don't make spars 
here?" 

11 1 am well aware of that, sir, but my order from Com- 
modore Bainbridge was to attend to this business immediate- 
ly on my arrival at Gibraltar, as in all probability the ship 
will remain but a few hours in the Bav after hor arrival." 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 121 

" Well, sir, this is no place for such business," and turned 
to leave me in this abrupt manner. But I was determined 
not to stand such treatment, and advancing towards him, 
said : 

" Look here, sir ; you are but a man, after all. I am an 
officer of the United States Navy, and have been sent to you 
with an official order for a maintop-sail yard for the United 
States ship, Independence. I came to you in a respectable 
and polite manner, and expected to meet a gentleman ; I 
have performed my errand, and now sir, leave the matter 
with you and the American Consul." 

I put on my hat, and turned to leave. He then, assum- 
ing a different tone, requested me to remain in the parlor a 
few minutes, and he would go with me to the spar maker. 
In a few minutes he was ready, and walked to the dock-yard 
in the most sociable manner, paying us a very high compli- 
ment on our most favorable and expeditious treaty with Al- 
giers. On arriving at the spar yard, it was decided that 
there was not a spar at the garrison large enough for the 
requisition. I parted with my stiff friend, with the utmost 
good feeling on both sides. Next day I went on shore quite 
early, for the purpose of rambling through the Eock, and 
availing myself of a polite invitation to dine with the Con- 
sul. I had read much of the Kock of Gibraltar, and had 
heard old sailors tell about guns being hung in chains, and 
about the old Moorish Castle, that millions had been offered 
for the privilege of opening it. All this created a desire to 
see for myself. So on landing, I got an intelligent soldier 
for a guide, and the necessary permit, and proceeded on my 
exploring tour. And without being very elaborate, I will 
give, although in the language of another, a pretty fair de- 
scription of the Eock. 

" Gibraltar is a high rock, projecting about three miles 
from north to south into the sea, and is the most southerly 
point of the Continent of Europe. It is connected with 
Spain by an isthmus of low land, the southern part of which 
belongs to the English, the northern to Spain, and the cen- 
tral to neither, being called the neutral ground. If con- 
victs escape from Gibraltar, and succeed in crossing the neu- 



122 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

tral grounds, they are safe, as the Spanish authorities will 
not give them up. The muskets of the sentinels are, howev- 
er, loaded with ball, and they must fire on any convict who 
is seen endeavoring to escape. English officers often cross 
the line into Spain to hunt and shoot, but are compelled to 
be well armed, as kidnapping is by no means uncommon. 77 

There are many Jews in Gibraltar, and those of the most 
villainous sort ; licentiousness also prevails to a great extent, 
especially among soldier's wives. The gates are shut at 
sundown, after which no one can get either in or out. 1 
cannot see any great use in its occupation as a garrison. 
It is not as many suppose, the key to the Mediterranean, any 
more than whatever use might be made of the Bay as a 
rendezvous. It costs the British Government an enormous 
annual expenditure, and after all, it amounts to nothing. 

The treaty of peace with Algiers, and the settlement of 
the demands against Tunis and Tripoli, enabled the greater 
part of the fleet to return home. And in designating those 
that were to stay, and those that were to return, caused 
much discontent among the officers, as there were many 
among those appointed to stay, that wished to go home. Bat 
the convenience and wishes of officers, are not generally con- 
sulted on these occasions. The whole matter was arranged 
by those high in authority, and the following ships were ap- 
pointed to remain in the Mediterranean ; some of which had 
arrived after the treaty of peace. 

United States frigate U. S., 4-1, Com. Shaw; Washington, 
74, Com. Chauncey; Java frigate, 44 Com. 0. Perry; frigate 
Constellation, 38, Capt. Gordon ; Erie, sloop-of-war, 22, Capt. 
Crane ; Ontario, 22, Capt Downes. 

I was removed from the Firefly to the Ontario, and of 
course among those that were to stay. This exchange and 
arrangement was made in Gibraltar Bay. After the home- 
ward-bound fleet had sailed, the Ontario was sent over to 
Tangier for live stock, but the Moors would not sell us any- 
thine that had life, it being contrary to Mahometan law. 
We returned to Gibraltar, joined the fleet, and sailed for 
Port Mahon, Island of Minorca. 

Scarcely had the homeward-bound ships left Gibraltar, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 123 

when Omar Pacha declared to our consul that he would not 
abide by the treaty ; alleging as an excuse for this gross in- 
fraction of what we supposed to be an honorable treaty, that 
our fleet had come upon him unawares. When his fleet were 
out, and just at the moment of signing, it was announced to 
him, that a ship with a large amount of tribute money had 
just appeared, and he was afraid that if our ships had got 
possession of this valuable prize, they would have kept her, 
together with all the treasure on board, and that when he 
signed the treaty, we had him like a man upon his back with 
a razor to cut his throat. 

Accordingly, they sailed out with their Corsairs, and cap- 
tured an American brig. As soon as this intelligence had 
reached us, we sailed immediately for Algiers. The consul 
came off, and confirmed the report, stating also, that as soon 
as the fleet had left the Bay, the Dey began to be abusive, and 
complained loudly against his folly in signing the treaty so 
hastily, affirming that he could, with any one of his batter- 
ies, have blown our diminutive fleet out of water. The Algerine 
fleet were now in winter quarters, and secure inside the 
moles. Commodore Shaw was now determined on an at- 
tempt to burn the fleet. All the carpenters were set at work 
planing every piece of spare lumber into shavings, oakum 
and thacking, well tarred, and sprinkled with spirits of tur- 
pentine. These combustibles were put into empty barrels 
and secured ready for use ; boats were selected, stout and able 
crews appointed for them, noble and daring officers were put 
in command of the expedition, and the night fixed, upon for 
this hazardous undertaking. But it was a matter of regret 
to us all that a rascally Frenchman happened to call on 
board as a visitor just at this time. He saw these prepara- 
tions going on, and suspecting that something hostile was in 
the wind, though pretending not to notice anything. Imme- 
diately on his getting on shore, he informed the" captain of 
the port of what he saw, and in less than an hour the forts 
were crowded with men ; the ships all manned, and every 
preparation made to repel any attempt that might be made 
to burn their ships. The difficulty was finally adjusted, the 
treaty resumed, and the brig which they had captured given 



124: AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

up, and damages paid. I understood afterwards, by a gen- 
tleman who obtained his knowledge from one of the consuls 
at Algiers, that when the Dey was informed that the United 
States had just concluded a peace with England, and that 
during the war with this great nation, the United States had 
captured a great number of their ships, that he became 
alarmed, fearing that a large fleet would be sent against him, 
when he reconsidered his treacherous act, and apologized to 
the consul. It appeared to me very mysterious, that long 
before our fleet arrived off Algiers, the Dutch had been at 
war with them, and had several frigates cruising off their 
coast, and even while we lay there, these Dutchmen would 
run in within two gunshots, and fire away bravely. The 
Algerines seemed to care no more about them, than for the 
sea-gulls, that flew about the bay. And now, supposing all 
right, we sailed again for Port Mahon, which is a very exten- 
sive and commodious harbor for ships-of-war, formerly a 
rendezvous for the English fleet, but not a place of much 
commerce. It possessed a very fine dock-yard and arsenal, and 
in the days of Spain's prosperity, ships were built, and all 
the necessary equipments, such as making rigging, casting 
guns, &c., were done here. The Constellation and Ontario, 
needing some repairs, the commodore applied to the governor 
for permission to lay the ships at the navy yard wharf. The 
governor gave the permission, provided that we should assist 
with our seamen to fit out and get ready for sea the Ferdi- 
nand, of 120 guns. Her destination was Carthagena, in 
Spain. She was to be hove down, caulked, and coppered, and 
there were not half men enough in Mahon to do this work. 
Commodore Shaw readily assented ; so we turned on our 
boys, and in fact, we performed the greatest portion of the 
work. For the whole posse, carpenters, caulkers, and sailors, 
were eertainlv the most miserable trash I had ever seen. And 
I never before, knew the meaning of the old saying, " as 
lazy as a Mahon soldier." While heaving the ships down, there 
were about a hundred of these wretches hold of the capstan 
bars ; and actually they hung on and were dragged round 
instead of using any exertion to heave at the capstan. There 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 125 

were about three hundred of them at the arsenal, who were 
filthy and covered with vermin. 

The admiral also was a great character. Indeed, his 
dress looked as though, if it ever was new, the time was so 
far back as to make it necessary to search the archives of 
Spain to determine the date. Then he was a very brave 
man. He wore a string of medals on his right breast, that 
looked like the bobtail to a kite. But the principal one, 
somewhat resembling the cover of a tin blacking-box, was 
for his gallant exploit of running away with his ship at the 
battle of Trafalgar. 

While lying here, the Corvette, John Adams, and the Alert 
store ship came in with provisions and spars for the fleet. 
The Ferdinand was repaired and hauled off. We then 
took her berth at the wharf, repaired our ships, and were 
soon ready for sea. Unfortunately for us, the small-pox 
made its appearance on board, which very much reduced 
our crew. The disease came out in a very singular manner. 
There was a fellow among the marines who had been for 
some weeks on the doctor's list, but the doctor could not de- 
termine the nature of his complaint.' The man was very 
filthy, and on close examination it was discovered that he 
was full of vermin. The first lieutenant ordered him to be 
taken on shore to a pond of fresh water, and there to be 
scrubbed and his hair cut off close to the skin. All this 
was done. He was brought on board, and complained of a 
pain in the back, and next morning he was broken out with 
the small-pox, which went through the ship ; and on some 
it terminated fatally, but soon disappeared, after which our 
ship was very healthy. 

Lord Exmouth's fleet, consisting of his flag-ship, the Boyne, 
90, and five other ships of the line, had been lying with us 
several days, and were now ready for sea. The governor of 
Mahon requested Commodore Shaw to loan seventy-five 
American seamen to assist in carrying the Ferdinand to 
Carthagena. pledging himself for their security and safe re- 
turn to their respective ships, unavoidable accidents excepted. 
Commodore Shaw, desirous to extend every courtesy to the 
Spanish government, and considering this request as a case 



126 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of necessity, let him have the men, also an officer to see that 
they were well fed and well treated, besides a young Greek, 
as interpreter. All being ready for sea, we got under way, 
stood out of the harbor and then separated. The English 
fleet were bound to Algiers, our ship (Ontario) to Barcelona, 
and a cruise, the Ferdinand, to Carthagena, the United 
States, Commodore Shaw, to Gibraltar. The weather looked 
unsettled when we got under way and a very heavy sea 
outside. At night we took a strong levanter which increased 
in severity until it became a regular hurricane, which lasted 
six days. We left Mahon on Monday morning and on Tues- 
day afternoon saw the Ferdinand far off on our lee quarter : 
her mizzen-mast was gone and her colors were at half-mast. 
We were 1 vino:- to and had as much as we could do to take care 
of ourselves, could render her no assistance and saw no more 
of her after this. 

We had on board, as passenger, a Lady Gavino, who had 
taken passage with us for Barcelona. She was much fright- 
ened during the gale, and being a Catholic, made a vow to 
her patron saint, that if she was spared to put her foot on 
the land again, she "would go barefooted to the nearest 
church and return thanks for her preservation. We landed 
her at Tarragona and afterwards heard that she performed 
her vow like a good Christian, but took a severe cold which 
nearly cost her life. 

We sailed for Carthagena to meet the commodore, who 
was to call there on his way from Gibraltar to receive his 
men, and we learned on our arrival at Carthagena that the 
Ferdinand had foundered at sea, near Bona, on the Barbary 
coast, that the crew had got safe on shore in their boats, 
and that on their reaching the shore, the Turks had made 
them all prisoners and treated them very badly. This in- 
telligence came by a Greek Coaster. 

Agreeably to our orders we were to wait here until the 
commodore arrived. While we layliore I had a good oppor- 
tunity of examining the arsenal and capacious docks. This 
was once a strong naval depot for the Spaniards, an admir- 
able harbor, and every convenience for building and cqupiping 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 127 

their largest ships. The country around is beautiful and 
productive, but the inhabitants are abominably lazy. 

At length the commodore arrived. He had heard the 
news about the Ferdinand, and we were sent to Algiers for 
our seamen. On arriving there, we ascertained that the 
sloop-of-war Erie had been there a few days since and 
taken them. I received the following account of the dis- 
aster from a young man on our arrival at Port Mahon. His 
story was as follows : ^ 

" Shortly after the gale commenced, we sprang a leak, and 
neither pumps nor pump gear were good for anything ; so 
tl\e pumps were entirely useless. And instead of bailing or 
hoisting the water up, as might have been done, until the gale 
abated, the officers and men were in groups all over the 
ship with their beads and St. Antonios, crying most hideously, 
without doing a hand's turn to save their lives. The sails 
were nearly all blown from the yards, no one willing to 0*0 
aloft, except our men and four young Greeks. There were 
but four or five among the Spaniards that knew any seaman- 
ship or that could steer the ship. The mizzen-mast and fore 
and main top-mast went over the side. Her head was kept 
in shore as long as she was manageable ? and on the followino' 
Wednesday she went down, head foremost. The land was on 
the lee bow, about ten miles distant. The Americans cleared 
away the boats and kept possession of three of the best. 
She was fortunately well supplied with boats, all of which 
were tight and strong. 



CHAPTER VI. 

Continuation of the loss of the Ferdinand, — Misunderstanding of the 
Spanish Government, — Attempt to retain our Stores at Mahon, — Find 
their mistake, — Promptness and energy of Com. Shaw, — Arrival of a 
wreck, — Superstitious observance of a vow, — Terrible row between the 
U. S. Seamen and the Spanish Soldiers, — A midshipman killed, — Fu- 
neral,— Affair at the burial ground, — Eneigyof Major Hall, — Sailed for 
Marseilles, — Arrival there, — Receive orders from the Captain of the 
Port to land the Powder, — Positively refuse to conform with the order, — 
Captain of the Port yields, — Curious idea of a French Custom officer, — 
Remarks on Marseilles, — Bonaparte excitement not over, — Sail for 
Malaga, — Arrive, — Arrival of U. S. Frigate, — Dreadful gale, — Get onto 
the rocks, — Frigate slips, and goes to se.i, — Fortunate rescue, — Expec- 
tations of the Spaniards disappointed, — Visit to the Cathedral, — A good 
piece of advice from an invisible mouth, — Sail for Barcelona, — Death 
of a Sailor bv a fall. — And of another bv relapse. — A man overboard, — 
Stave the boats, — In consequence of winch a boat's crew get over- 
board, — All rescued, — Miscellaneous character of our crew, — Story of 
a privateersman, — Boxing match between two men, — Arrive at Naples, 
Splendid new of an eruption of Vesuvius, — Visit to Herculaneum and 
Pompeii, — Description, — Visit through the grotto of Pausilippo, and 
other places of much interest, — A brief description of Naples, — Beg- 
gars, maimed and deformed, — -Wretched condition of the population, — 
Sail for Messina, — Mount Stromboli, — Arrive at Messina, — Superstition 
of my Cicerone, — Account of an Earthquake, — Superstitious reverence. 

Had it been otherwise with our boats, probably every soul 
would have perished. Part of her hull remained above wat- 
er, which was also a fortunate circumstance, enabling them 
to prepare the boats with everything necessary for the shore, 
as the sea was very high, and it was dangerous to attempt a 
landing in the surf. The Spaniards had now ceased to cry 
to St. Antonio, and began to make preparations to save 
their lives on their own hook, having no further confideD 
in their Saint. The Spanish captain and * >egan to 

ily round, but all discipline and control was at an end. Our 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 129 

seamen took possession of their boats and only awaited a 
favorable chance to shove off for the shore. It was very evi- 
dent that the Spaniards depended on the American seamen as 
leaders, and after a great deal of confusion, the boats left 
the wreck. The ship was fast settling in the water, and 
would, in all probability, soon disappear. The boats in which 
were our men, went ahead, and at times were nearly filled 
with water. The Spaniards were far behind, and it was al- 
most certain that they could not reach the land, as their boats 
were so badly managed. On approaching the shore, it was 
discovered that the breakers extended out some distance, and 
very heavy surf running on the beach. By this time the 
inhabitants had come to the sea-shore in large numbers, and 
were waving to the boats to keep further South, where at last 
they effected a landing." 

I could not ascertain whether all had been saved. It was 
supposed that some were left on board when she went down. 

" We had no sooner landed," continued the young man, 
" than we were all seized as prisoners, our clothes torn from 
us, then secured and placed in an old stone building. Our 
young Greek interpreter, who understood Arabic, told the Al- 
gerine soldiers, that there were seventy-five Americans among 
the crew ; but they made no distinction, treating all as Span- 
iards, with whom they were at war. 

When we asked for something to eat, the Turks pointed to 
the stones, saying, "They were good enough for Christian 
dogs." The Greek, by knowing their language, was permitted 
to go at liberty. He fell in with a fisherman that was going 
to Algiers, and with much difficulty procured materials, and 
wrote to the Consul ; giving a brief statement of the wreck, 
and of our confinement, which as soon as the Consul had re- 
ceived it, employed means for the immediate liberation of the 
Americans, and their passage to Algiers : all which was 
promptly done. On their arrival at Algiers, were properly 
cared for, until the sloop-of-war, Erie, took them away." 

When we left Port Mahon, the John Adams was stripping 
her rigging requiring to be fitted, and some of it to be re- 
placed with new. The commodore had ordered her to be 
ready for sea against his return, as he intended to send her 
I 



130 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

home with despatches. All the rigging, provisions and stores 
that came in the Alert, were put into a Government store, 
and when the account of the loss of the Ferdinand reached 
Spain, the Spanish Government were disposed to be suspici- 
ous, that there had been some foul play, and gave an order 
to the Governor of Mahon. not to allow any stores belong- 
ing to the United States, to be taken from the public store. 
In consequence of this order, the John Adams could not pro- 
ceed in fitting for home. When the commodore arrived at 
Mahon, and found how matters stood, and feeling much 
vexed at not finding the John Adams ready for sea, he sent a 
polite note to the Governor, requesting the store key. The 
Governor had always been on good terms with the American 
officers ; and the commodore knew that the detention of the 
stores was by an order from the Government, and not from 
the Governor of Mahon. The Frigate was hauled up abreast 
the store, the guns double shotted, our ship lay just astern 
with guns shotted. No key was received. The commodore 
sent another messenger, saying to the Governor, that if the 
store was not opened in one hour, he would open it with his 
guns. The people on shore became now much alarmed, know- 
ing the determined character of Com. Shaw : but before the 
expiration of the hour, the store wa3 opened, so ended this 
matter. The John Adams was fitted, and went home with 
despatches-, and with the sick men of the fleet. 

A few days after our arrival, a wreck came to the Harbor, 
that had struck on a reef out-side, she filled, but floated with 
her deck only out of water ; the crew were all on the deck, 
and had been in that exposed condition, two days and nights, 
without food or water. They had promised old St. Antonio, 
that if he would bring them safe into port, they would walk 
on their bare knees to church, and return thanks, and on 
landing from the wreck, they made known their vow to the 
people, who immediately commenced sweeping a path for them. 
Several old women came with brooms, and continued sweep- 
ing before them ; but notwithstanding the way was swept, be- 
fore they had got half- way up the hill, their knees were in a 
dreadful condition, torn, and streaming with blood. At last 



AUTOBIOGR A PIIY. 131 

the j reached the church, which unfortunately for them was 
up a hill, and there performed their promised vows. 

An unpleasant and fatal affair took place while we lay 
here, which cast a gloom throughout the fleet. The Frigate 
Constellation. Capt. Gordon, returned from a cruise, and on 
the following Sunday, fifty men from each of the frigates, 
and twenty-live from the Ontario, were permitted to go on 
shore on liberty. Now, all who know anything of the char- 
acter of a man-of-war sailor, knows also that he heartily 
despises a soldier. There is but one general resort for sea- 
men at Port Mahon, which is at the farther end of the town, 
near the barracks of the soldiers. The principal house, is 
well known by all who have ever been there, as the " Jack- 
ass tavern," where is an abundant supply of ruinous liquor. 
Around this place, are hundreds of " donkey boys," who 
keep theee animals, to let to sailors, for a ride to George- 
town, about four miles from Mahon. These donkeys will 
not budge a step without a club, which must b.e constantly 
applied by the boys upon the rump of the brutes. And fre- 
quently they jam the half drunken sailor up against a stone 
wall, thus tearing his trousers, and bruising his limbs. The 
price of hire is about twenty cents ; which is generally clear 
gain to the boys, as the sailor seldom, or never succeeds in 
making him go ; and all the fun lies in seeing the sailor 
thrown off and sometimes much injured. On the Sunday 
that our men had liberty on shore, they of course went up 
to Jackass Tavern, and after partaking freely of miserable 
sour wine, they had got into the right trim for fun. Went 
out among the donkey boys where they went through all the 
usual evolutions of drunken sailors. During this time the 
soldiers had mingled with the crowd, which rather disconcer- 
ted the sailors, the latter supposing that all the ground and 
all the fun belonged to them. But the soldiers did not ihink 
so, and began to laugh and make fun of them. Inside the 
tavern were crowds of soldiers and sailors. At last the latter 
began to kick up a row with the soldiers, and drove them all 
out, and commenced flogging them. They retreated into the 
barracks, got their bayonets and came out ready for a fight. 
The sailors seeing this, drove them back again. By this time 



132 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

their officers had been apprised of the row, and attempted to 
interfere : but it was of no use, the fight had now become 
general. There were about one hundred and fifty American 
seamen and officers on shore, and about one hundred and 
twenty-five seamen engaged in the fight, with over three hun- 
dred Spanish soldiers. They were not what I have before 
called Mahon soldiers, they were a regiment sent from Old 
Spain, to protect the Island. The fight now became alarm- 
ing ; the sailors when they turned and faced the soldiers, 
the latter would retreat, but as soon as the sailors started 
again towards the town, these cowardly soldiers would throw 
the paving stones at them, and in some instances rush upon a 
half drunken sailor, plunge his bayonet into him, and then 
run. Many of these poor fellows received dreadful wounds 
from bayonets and large stones. This running fight was 
kept up for the distance of nearly a mile, and when they had 
got within a short distance of the Crown Hotel, the noise 
was heard by the American officers, who were there at the 
time ; who rushed into the street, to see what the trouble 
was. Just as the mob had got abreast the door of the hotel, 
Midshipman Moore, of the Ontario, happened to be the first 
who got into the street. He had no sooner stepped upon the 
sidewalk, when a Spanish soldier officer, run him through 
the body with a small sword, killing him instantly. He fell 
into the gutter, and remained there until the mob had passed. 
He was then taken into the hotel and prepared for burial. — 
The mob had now approached the centre of the town. The 
American officers were in the midst of them with their side 
arms. Capt. Downes was also among them, like a brave one. 
The town authorities now took the matter up, and by sun- 
down all was quiet, the sailors having been sent on board their 
respective ships. I came on shore again after dark, with a 
party well armed, to bring the body of the murdered officer 
on board the ship. We could never identify the murderer, al- 
though much exertion was made to find him out. The funer- 
al was appointed for the following Tuesday. The body was 
placed in one of the cutters, spread around with American 
flags, and a large ensign for the pall. The pall bearers were 
officers, about the age of the deceased. The line of boats 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 13 



o 



was very long, accompanied by many from the shore, filled 
with citizens of Mahon who deeply lamented this unfortu- 
nate affair. Accompanying the funeral procession which con- 
sisted principally of all the officers of the squadron who could 
be spared from duty, there were also a number of seamen 
from each ship handsomely dressed, and forty marines, headed 
by Major Hall. When the boats arrived at the landing 
place, the marines were drawn up to precede the body, which 
was borne on the shoulders of four seamen. The funeral pro- 
cession was large and well conducted, and when it had arrived 
at the graveyard, the marines were drawn up for the purp'ose 
of fireino- a volley over the grave, when the coffin was lowered 
into its resting place. The major gave the word, Fire ! It 
was not what is generally called a good fire, there being some 
few seconds interval between some of the reports. At 
this the Spanish soldiers seemed inclined to laugh ; as there 
was a large body of them near the grave. This insult, and 
coming too from these cowardly rascals, raised the ire of 
Major Hall, who instantly gave the order to ' : load with ball 
cartridges." The Spaniards, rather suspecting something, be- 
gan to move off. The order now given, " right about face !" 
present, and if ever sheep jumped quickly over a wall, these 
fellows cleared and went over the graveyard fence, as if old 
Jemmy was after them. The marines did not fire, but they 
ought to have clone so, and shown these cowardly rascals who 
they had to deal with. Those who had attended the funeral, 
returned to their several ships, after having paid all due hon- 
or and respect to the memory of the unfortunate young mid- 
shipman. 

The weather had now become fine, and we were getting 
ready for a summer cruise. About the middle of April we 
sailed for Marseilles, arrived safely there, and hauled into 
the mole. We w r ere boarded by the health officer, and put 
into quarantine, in consequence of having a few cases of sick- 
ness on board. The captain of the port ordered the guns 
to be unloaded, and our powder landed. To this, Capt. Downes 
positively objected. He consented to unload the guns, con- 
sidering this requirement no more than a proper precaution 
against fire. The authorities finally withdrew the order to 



134 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

land the powder, this being the first American man-of-war 
that ever entered the mole*. They were not posted up with 
regard to the way of getting along with Yankee Captains. 
They sent on board a "savage " looking Frenchman as a 
Custom house officer to remain on board while we were in 
quarantine. The first lieutenant ordered the purser's steward 
to serve this fellow his ration for the day, which was, 1-4 lb. 
of salt beef, 14 oz. bread, and 1-2 pint of whiskey. The 
Frenchman, when he understood that he must take his food 
with the men, became quite indignant, threw the beef and 
bread down, swearing horribly in French, his hands agoing 
like the paddle of a steamboat, saying, he "always had lived 
in the cabin with the Captain." It was some time before 
the fellow could be 'made to understand what kind of a ship 
he was on board of, and finally made an arrangement with 
some one on shore, to send him off some grass and a beef 
bone, with which he made himself a pot of soup, and became 
quite contented. 

Marseilles had not yet recovered from the downfall of Bona- 
parte. They had always been bitterly opposed to him, and 
only three months previous to our arrival, there had been a 
massacre of three hundred men, women and children, for pro- 
claiming their adhesion to him ; and there was also a ship in 
the mole, and lying near us, with twenty -six French officers, 
adherents of Bonaparte, who were under sentence of death. 

We remained here three weeks, and then sailed for Malaga. 
We had scarcely let our anchor go in Malaga roads, when we 
discovered the U. S. Frigate in the offing, bound in. She 
reached her anchorage about 4 o'clock in the morning. At 
noon, a gale from the S. E. commenced, which increased so 
rapidly, lhat we found it necessary to send down our top-gal- 
lant yards, house top-gallant masts, and lower the fore and 
main yards down to the rail. The gale increasing, Captain 
Downes made a signal for a pilot to take us inside the mole 

* Marseilles is now, 1856, quite another place to what it was in 1816. 
Then, there was no harbor to the left of the tower ; all that portion has 
been added, with many other improvements. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 135 

as there was danger where we lay, of foundering at our an- 
chors ; the sea making a clean sweep fore and aft the decks. 
The frigate could render us no assistance, and as no pilot 
came off, we accordingly made preparations for slipping our 
cables, and make an attempt to enter the mole. Our anchors 
and cables were buoyed, a spare anchor and cable got in 
readiness, when we watched our chance, let fall, and sheeted 
home, a close-reefed maintop-sail, slipped the chains at the 
same time, and put the helm up. She did not pay off as 
was expected, neither did she gather headway soon enough 
to round the molehead, but drifted on to the rocks. We let 
go the spare anchor just in the right time, and fortunately, 
it held on firmly, our stern only striking the ground. We 
hung now in a perilous position ; should our cable part, 
or our anchor come home, we must inevitably have swung 
round square upon the rocks, which would have made an 
end of the Ontario. 

While we lay in this critical position, a well-manned boat 
came from the frigate with a large hawser and anchor. 
They made one end of the hawser fast to the mole, and 
brought the other end on board, which we took to the cap- 
stan, and hove it taut, A large well-manned boat also came 
to our assistance from the captain of the port. 

All along the shore, the Spaniards had collected to see us 
go to pieces on the rocks, and were doubtless much surprised 
at seeing us use any exertion to extricate ourselves from our 
dangerous position. For had they been in our place, there 
would have been nothing done but praying to some saint for 
assistance, and making large promises to the Church. We 
succeeded in heaving the ship off into deep water, and then con- 
sidered ourselves out of danger. The gale continued through 
the night ; the frigate slipped her cables, and went to sea, 
but returned in two days. When the gale had abated, 
we ran up into fhe mole and anchored in a good berth, 
I had a good cruise on shore, and in company with another 
officer visited the Cathedral, and while looking about and 
walking round the gallery, we came across a very large book, 
the letters of which were two inches long. I observed to the 
gentleman with me, that these letters were large enough to 



136 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

be felt. Directly we heard a voice from the other side speak- 
ing to us in English, and in a gruff voice, " A still tongue makes 
a wise head." We looked round, but saw nobody, when di- 
rectly an old fellow raised his head and commenced scolding 
us for talking loud in church. I must confess I felt rather 
uneasy, as there were many ugly looking places in the build- 
ing, and I began to think about inquisitions hot pincers, 
and roasting over a slow fire, which I did not care about 
enduring at present. So we left Malaga Cathedral unex- 
plored, and walked down towards the Fort. As it was very 
warm, and the sun shining out very bright, there were lots 
of Spaniards with their shirts off, " lousing themselves." 
And of all the miserable wretches on the face of the earth, I 
think a Spaniard is the worst. 

We hauled out and got our anchors, and from Malaga we 
sailed for Barcelona ; remained there but a few days, and sailed 
for Naples. The day on which we left Barcelona, a French- 
man that had shipped at Marseilles fell from the mizzen-top, 
and was killed. We also lost a fine English lad, an active 
young sailor, named Williams. He was truly an amiable 
young man. He had nearly recovered from a dangerous 
fever. His appetite having rapidly increased, one of his 
messmates imprudently gave him a piece of duff, or sailor's 
pudding, which was as indigestible as a handspike. This 
produced a relapse, and on the next morning he was a corpse. 
One of his shipmates produced the following lines, which 
were very appropriate : 

THE DYING SAILOR BOY. 

Dark flew the scud along the wave, 

Repeated thunders rolled on high ; 
All hands aloft the storm to brave, 

At midnight was the boatswain's cry. 

On deck sprang every soul apace ; 

But one, bereft of human joy, . 
Within a hammock's narrow space 

Lay stretched — a hapless sailor boy. 

Once when the boatswain's pipe would hail, 

The first was he of all the crew 
On deck to spring, to trim the sail, 

To steer, to reef, to furl, or clew. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 137 

Now fell disease had seized a form, 
Which Nature cast in happiest mould ; 

The bell struck midnight through the storm, 
His last, his funeral knell it told. 

" Oh ! God," he cried, and dropped a tear, 
" Before my spirit mounts the skies, 

Are there no friends, or messmates dear, 
To close in death my weary eyes ? " 

All hands aloft, loud blows the wind, 

Surrounding billows loudly roar ; 
He raised his head, he bowed resigned, 

Then backward sank to rise no more. 

The morning sun in splendor rose, 

The gale was hush'd, and still' d the wave ; 

The sea-boy found his last repose, 
In ocean's deep and boundless grave. 

But He who guards the sea-boy's head, 

He who can save, or can destroy, 
Caught the pure spirit as it fled, 

And raised to heaven the sailor boy. 

And on the same day a man also fell from the mizzen-top- 
gallant yard. He fell clear of everything into the sea, when 
a rush was made to clear away the starboard quarter boat. 
The boat's crew had got in, and all ready to lower away ; 
the fellow who had hold of the bow tackle let it go all at 
once, and spilled the men out, together with the oars and 
everything that was in the boat. Here were now seven men 
overboard, when orders were given to lower away the cap- 
tain's gig, that was hanging at the stern davits ; and in the 
hurry, they managed to let her strike against the rudder, 
and stove her. The only thing now to be done was to clear 
away the second cutter, which was stowed in the first, and 
full of spare sails and rigging. We soon cleared her away, 
and at the same time the yard tackles were got up ; the boat 
was successfully hoisted out, and every man picked up, al- 
though they had been overboard near a half hour. We 
passed through the Straits of Bonifacio between Corsica and 
Sardinia, as it very materially shortens the distance to Naples. 



138 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

"We had a fine crew, nearly all of which had served in gov- 
ernment ships or privateersmen, and many of them had been 
in severe battles. There were some from the Essex frigate, 
some from the privateer, Gen. Armstrong, that so nobly de- 
fended herself at Fayal, and some that were on board the 
President when she was captured by the British fleet off New 
York. We had also a funny old salt, who was on board a 
schooner privateer out of New York, mounting one long 
twenty-four on a pivot, amidships, and eight nine-pounders 
on her deck. He told us the following story : 

" One morning, we found ourselves close along-side an Eng- 
lish frigate. There was a good breeze from the south-west, 
the schooner was hauled close on the wind, and the frigate 
commenced firing, the shot flying around, cutting away 
the rigging and riddling the schooner. We slewed our 
long gun round and gave the enemy several raking shot, 
which must have done much damage. The frigate was now 
fast gaming upon us, and our capture was certain, unless we 
could get away by superior sailing ; so we threw all our guns 
and shot overboard, started the water, reserving only a small 
quantity for present use. We now began to drop the frigate, 
who kept up a continual fire from her bow guns, which for- 
tunately did but little damage, and being anxious to get 
out of the reach of her shot, we threw over everything that 
could be spared, hoisted water aloft and wet the sails, and 
very soon, to our great joy, the enemy's shot fell short of us. 
He gave up the chase and tacked ship. 

Here now was the privateer a thousand miles from Xew 
York, without guns, short of provisions, arid in the track of 
English cruisers. A few days after, at about four o'clock P. 
31., the man at the mast head sung oat: 

" Sail, ho !" 

" Where away?" 

l - About two points on the weather bow •" 

" What does she look like?" 

" She is a large ship, sir, standing to the eastward." 

The first lieutenant took his glass and went upon the fore- 
top-sail yard, and made her out to be a merchantman. And 
now what was to be done? We had no guns, and but one 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 139 

boat that would float, but Yankee ingenuity is always equal 
to any emergency, and we immediately turned to and took a 
spare top-mast, sawed it into eight pieces, blacked the ends, 
and stuck them out of the ports. We then took two empty 
beef barrels, placed them on the pivot carriage amidships, 
over which we threw a large tarpaulin. While all this was 
going on, we had kept along with our eye on the stranger, 
beimx rather cautious until her true character could be known, 
for resistance on the part of the schooner was out of the 
question. 

About an hour before sunset, the captain of the schooner 
was resolved to run aloim-side and find out who and what the 
stranger was. She had two guns on each side run out, and 
on deck were twenty-five men who could be counted with 
the glass. We run along-side, keeping clear of his guns, and 
hailed, and now hoisted the American flag and ordered him 
to send his boat on board immediatelv, which he did not seem 
inclined to do. We could easily sec several spy-glasses point- 
ed at us from persons we supposed to be passengers. Our 
captain now stepped upon a gun carriage, and with his trum- 
pet, gave the order : 

" Clear away the midship gun ! Stand by your guns in 
the waist !" 

The sun had now set, and it would soon be dark, the 
ship had not yet shortened sail. Our captain then hailed 
him again : 

" If you wish to avoid bloodshed, sir, back your maintop- 
sail, and come immediately on board." 

When to our ■ great relief he backed his main yard, and 
prepared to lower his quarter boat. Our captain then gave 
a loud order : 

' k Secure your aruns ! Call all hands, out boats, sir /" We 
had hit one boat that would swim, all the others were destroyed 
bv the frigate's shot. As soon as we saw the boat shove off* 
from the ship, a prize crew was selected, and our first lieuten- 
ant was the prize-master. He was a fine man, and belonged 
to New Bedford, (l have forgotten his name.) As soon as 
his boat struck our side, our boat shoved off with as many 
men as she could carry, and each with a pistol. The captain 



140 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

stepped on board and was hurried into the cabin. The crew 
were ordered out of the boat, and immediately sent below. 
Fifteen men were sent on board the prize, to assist in securing 
the command, and to get up some fresh water and what pro- 
visions could be spared. As the weather was fine, we lay by 
her until daylight next morning, when all things being ar- 
ranged, we squared away for New York. 

The prize was the Albion, of London, seven hundred tons, 
Capt. Edward Shields, from Rio Janeiro, with a cargo of 
coffee and sugar, and bound to London. But, says the nar- 
rator, the scene next morning was beyond description. When 
this poor fellow found how he had been deceived, he began 
to rave like a madman. He tore out his hair by the hand- 
ful, saying he was ruined, for all he had in the world was in 
that cargo. Our captain assured him that his private adven- 
ture should be restored to him, which somewhat mitigated his 
distress. "But," says our captain, " suppose we get taken, 
and your ship retaken, what will you do with me ?" 

He jumped up, and with a half smile, said, "Upon my 
life, I should like no better fortune than I could make with 
you by showing you up in England as a live Yankee." 

We arrived with the schooner in New York on the fourth 
of July, and got pretty well in for it, sold my prize ticket 
for sixty dollars, and shipped for the States service." 

This is the sailor's story, with a little alteration in the 
language, and leaving out the usual interladino- of a sailor's 
yarn. We had two fine looking fellows that belonged to the 
forecastle. One was a Boston boy, named Badger, the other, 
Jack Dixon, an Englishman ; these men had not been on 
good terms for many days, and finally agreed to fight it out 
in fair play if they could obtain permission. They both came 
to the first lieutenant and made known to him their difficulty, 
and requested permission to settle the matter in an honora- 
ble manner, on deck, as fighting below was a punishable 
offence. The first lieutenant acquainted the captain of the 
request, when he immediately came on deck, had the two 
men sent aft, and asked them if thev could not settle their 
difficulty without fighting ; they answered in the negative. 
" Very well," says the captain, "get ready. Send the mas- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 141 

ter-at-arms here, sir," to the officer of the deck ; " each of you 
choose a friend/ 7 which they had already done. 

A ring was now formed, the master-at-arms was placed to 
see fair play ; officers and crew gathered round. They 
stripped and went at it, and it was a grand display of that 
species of science called " fisti-cuffs." Every blow was meas- 
ured with mathematical precision. As soon as either was 
knocked down, he was immediately caught by his friends, his 
back rubbed, and placed upon his feet, ready for another 
drop. These men fought nearly two hours, and were both so 
much exhausted they could scarcely stand ; the captain 
ordered them to desist. They separated, with an understand- 
ing that they should have another game on some other day, 
but that night, preliminaries of peace were ratified over a 
bottle of grog. 

We arrived at Naples late in the afternoon, and anchored 
over against Portici. Were quarantined here six days, 
and one night while lying here, an eruption of Mount Vesu- 
vius occurred, which was truly a beautiful sight. The lurid 
name from the crater, and the streaming lava running down 
the sides of the mountain, with an occasional belching up of 
flame, as though old Vulcan was stirring up the lire, and 
then the whole bay was so beautifully illuminated that, take 
it altogether, it was a splendid panorama. 

After we had obtained pratique, our ship was swarmed 
with every sort of beggars, in the shape of blind fiddlers, 
horribly distorted, deformed men, women and children ; and 
lots of priests and friars, begging for their several communi- 
ties. And the most deplorable sight of all was, mothers 
bringing off their daughters, urging them on the seamen 
for prostitution. And these same deluded beings, priestridden 
and oppressed in the vilest manner, carry about them a cru- 
cifix, with their beads and rosary, which they frequently re- 
sort to while engaged in the worst of crimes. And this they 
believe to be a propitiation. 

The excavation at Pompeii was progressing moderately. I 
visited the Museum where the curiosities were deposited. 
There were many things here which were taken from the 
uncovered houses, such as bread, dough, cloth, thread, and 



142 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



many domestic articles that looked as though they were 
about to he used when the sad calamity occurred. I saw 
skeletons that had been pressed into the earth, and many 
human bones, and an immense quantity of broken pottery, 
and about seventeen hundred pictures on fresco. The exca- 
vation at that time had not developed much of the city, in 
fact, nothing compared to what can be seen at the present 
day. 

" Naples is the chief city of the Two Sicilies, with a popu- 
lation of 400,000 souls. The environs cannot be surpassed 
for scenic beauty and delightful reminiscences. They are 
painted over Virgil's tomb, in the stupendous grotto of Pau- 
silipo." The Grotto del Cani, in which you can perceive the 
mephitic gas, rising some fifteen inches from the ground. 
They threw a dog into the grotto while I stood in it ; the dog 
was immediatelv seized with convulsions, but taken out and 
water thrown upon him, or he would soon have died. Then 
there are St. Germain's baths, warmed only by the heat aris- 
ing from the ground. I noticed quite a number of ancient 
looking coaches, the horses, miserable looking affairs, and 
the harness made chiefly of pieces of rope, clumsily knotted, 
and one in particular, the driver who was in rusty livery, 
and the footman with a cocked hat, epaulets, and barefooted. 
The rider in this unique equipage was a beggar. I was 
told that these were poor noblemen, still clinging to the ex- 
terior show of nobilitv, and at the same time starvino-. The 
street beo-o-ars were so numerous that a stranger could hardly 
get along through the vast crowd that surrounded him. 
To give anything, however small, was to involve yourself in 
a much greater difficulty than before. The environs of Na- 
ples are very interesting to the classical traveller ; such as 
Lake Avernus, Baia, Ischia, Procida, and Capri, Castella- 
mare, and the ascent of Vesuvius. Some of the church fes- 
tivals, particularly on the 8th of September, the Nativity of 
the Virgin, is quite amusing. The traveller can well spend 
three months in Naples without diminishing its interest. 

We remained at Naples three weeks, and then sailed for 
Messina, in Sicily. Here, too, is another delightful spot for 
the traveller. In going from Naples to Messina, the voyage, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 143 

though short, is highly interesting. You pass Mount Strom- 
boli, the " most northern of the Lipari Islands. It is a vol- 
cano, which rises in a conical form to the height of 3000 
feet ; on the east side are three or four little craters, ranged 
near each other, nearly at two-thirds of its height. Notwith- 
standing its fires, it is inhabited, and produces a great deal 
of cotton. Of all the volcanoes recorded in history, Strom- 
boli seems to be the only one that burns without ceasing, and 
it has long been looked upon as the great light-house of the 
Mediterranean, the flames being seen by night at a great dis- 
tance." And on your left is the beautiful promontory of Cala- 
bria, the southern extremity of Italy. The Apennines, too, 
intersecting the whole territory, from north to south. This 
country abounds in excellent fruit, corn, wine, oil, silk, cot- 
ton, and wool. In 1783, a terrible earthquake destroyed a 
great portion of Calabria and Sicily. We now were at an- 
chor in Messina, one of the safest harbors in the Mediterra- 
nean. Here also a great trade is carried on in silk, oil, corn, 
and excellent wine. This city suffered much by an earth- 
quake, in 1683, when it was half destroyed; it was, however, 
rebuilt, and suffered again very severely in 1770. There 
are some handsome buildings, and beautiful promenades, but 
like all other Italian cities, full of priests and monks, of al- 
most every order. I employed a Cicerone to show me round, 
and it was truly amusing to hear the fellow go on describing 
things and places. He spoke good English, as many do 
here, for prior to 1814, Messina was the head-quarters of the 
British army in Sicily. My guide took me up a hill to a 
convent, and near by to which was a pond of muddy water. 

" Here," says he, " I wish to relate to you why this pond 
has its milky appearance. When the holy virgin was on 
earth, she made a visit to this city, and laid the foundation 
of that convent ; and in order to show that she had been 
here, squeezed a drop of milk from her breast into the pond, 
which gave it this color which it has retained ever since." 

" Indeed !" says I. 

We passed on until we came to a long, broad street, when 
he stopped me, and commenced : 

"You see this Ion a; street before us ? Now in the last 



144 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



earthquake, it opened in the middle through its whole length, 
and swallowed up many hundred people, and then closed 
again. My father says he saw a man that was caught 
with only his head ahove ground, when it closed upon him. 
He sung out like a good fellow, but he was finally dug out 
alive." 

He next took me to an old and dilapidated stone fort. 
" Here," said he, " when the Saracens were on the Island, and 
had nearly got possession of Messina, an angel stood on that 
corner, (pointing to it,) and, waving his sword, preserved the 
fort from being; taken." And while walking with me, he 
kept his hat in his hand a great part of the time. As he 
invariably bowed to every image we passed, and they were 
quite numerous, it was less trouble to walk bareheaded than 
to be constantly lifting his hat. 






CH APTEE VII. 

Get tired of my Cicerone. — Discharge him. — Sail to S)racuse. — Catania. 
— Arrive at Syracuse. — Description. — Singular customs of the priests. 
— Sail for Palermo. — Its description. — Also, description of Sicily. — Ig- 
norance of a Sicilian broker. — Readiness to advance money. — Sail for 
Malta and Tripoli. — Not to communicate with Tripoli. — Politeness of 
the Pacha. — Death of Capt. Gordon at Messina. — Arrival of the 
fleet. — Sail for Tunis. — Mistake in the course. — Perilous condition. — Ar- 
rive at Tunis. — Anchor off Carthage. — Duel between two midshipmen. 
No blood shed. — Intelligence that Lord Exmouth had demolished Al- 
giers by bombardment. — Sail for Algiers. — Cautioned not to approach 
within gunshot. — Explanation of the difficulty with the British Consul. 
— Indignation towards Lord Exmouth. — His visit to England. — Re- 
turns with an efficient fleet. — Bombardment of Algiers, and subjuga- 
tion of the Dey. — Its final destruction by the French. 

I became tired of the fellow, paid him, and let him go. 
From Messina, we went to Syracuse, passing Catania, a beau- 
tiful city on the east coast of Sicily, a place of great antiquity, 
but has suffered greatly, as well by the eruptions of Mount 
iEtna, as by earthquakes. It was nearly overwhelmed with 
lava from the former, in 1698. An earthquake destroyed a 
great portion of the city, and buried 18,000 persons in its 
ruins. It has risen from these disasters with increasing 
splendor, and in 1825, ranked among the finest cities in 
Europe. It is situated at the foot of Mount ./Etna on the 
south side, and contains about 50,000 inhabitants. In pass- 
ing, it presents a beautiful appearance, rising gradually on 
the slope of iEtna. We arrived at Syracuse late in the 
evening, and could not see the city until the next morning. 
There is not much of any interest to be seen here, as the 
city has been much reduced by war, tyranny and earth- 
quakes. Great stories are told about Dionysius and his 
cave. And I noticed while lying here, that a little after sun- 
J 



146 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



down there was a peculiar noise on shore near the church, 
and asked the boatman one day what this noise meant. 
He told me that the church was shut up every night, and 
that previous to locking the doors, the priests went round 
inside with long poles to beat the devil out ; and this was the 
noise that we heard. 

We sailed from Syracuse to Palermo, passing nearly 
round the Island, and arrived there in four days. Palermo 
is situated at the head of a bay of its own name, surrounded 
by high and rocky mountains. The country between the 
city and the mountains is one of the richest plains in the 
world. A visit to the Botanic Garden and the Catacombs, 
is well worth the attention of the traveller. 

I should have mentioned that while at Syracuse, the com- 
modore applied to a rich Jew banker for a loan on credit of 
the United States, as the officers needed money to replenish 
their wardrobe, and also to pay their little hotel bills on 
shore. The commodore and purser waited on the banker, 
who was entirely ignorant of what part of Europe the Uni- 
ted States might be found, having a Map of the World be- 
fore him at the same time. But when it was shown him 
who, and what, and where the United States was, he lifted 
up both hands, exclaiming : " Oh, yes ! yes! lou are the 
country that have just concluded a peace with the English. 
Yes, I have read of your war. You can have what money 
you wish." Bills on the United States were cashed, and the 
officers liberally supplied with the needful. 

I should also have stated that the fleet, consisting of the 
Washington, 74, Commodore Chauncey : Java Frigate, Com- 
modore Perry ; and Peacock, Capt, G-. W. Rodgers ; frigate 
Constellation, and Erie, sloop-of-war, had arrived at Messina 
after we had left. The Ontario had received orders to pro- 
ceed from Palermo to Malta, and from thence to Tripoli, but 
not to communicate with the shore until the arrival of all 
the ships. According to orders, we lay off Tripoli ten days. 
During this time, the Bashaw kindly sent off a bullock, some 
sheep and a large quantity of fruit, which was to us at this 
time, a very acceptable present. At length the squadron 
appeared in sight, and we soon learned that the cause of 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 147 

their delay was, that Capt. Charles Gordon, of the Constel- 
lation, had died at Messina. 

He had been out of health for some time, which I believe 
was caused by having a bullet in his body, which he had re- 
ceived many years before, and which had not been extracted, 
and continued suppuration had very much reduced him. He 
was a brave officer and an accomplished gentleman. We 
remained off Tripoli two days, and then by signal from Com- 
modore Chauncey, (who by seignority, superseded Commo- 
dore Shaw,) received orders to proceed to Tripoli in the line 
of order designated by signal. The course was given by sig- 
nal also, but it was observed that Commodore Shaw kept two 
points to windward of the course given by the Commodore. 

It had been blowing very fresh before we left Tripoli, 
and attended with a very heavy sea. While we were 
at Palermo, an old priest came off to the ship with a 
large bag, and a St. Antonio box, in which he kept 
the charity money which he from day to day could beg. 
This bag he intended to contain anything in the way of pro- 
visions that the charitable were disposed to give to his " poor 
monk brethren." He brought the bag to me, and with an 
imploring look, offered to sell us a fair wind for a small sum 
of money or a few biscuits. And as the purchasing of a fair 
wind did not exactly belong to me, I declined the offer, but 
was sorry afterwards that we did not accept, the old man's, 
bargain, as we had a head wind all the way to Tunis. 

The second day after leaving Tripoli, in consequence of 
the previous and continued bad weather, the fleet had be- 
come scattered, and out of their regular order of sailing. 
It so happened, and very fortunately too, that the Erie, draw- 
ing less water than any other of the ships, had, by tacking, 
got ahead of the fleet ; where, if the weather had been good, 
the commodore should have been. 

About nine o'clock in the morning, all at once we saw a 
change in the color of the water, and immediately a signal 
was made from the Erie, of danger. The commodore gave 
the signal to tack, which we obeyed. He then, by sig- 
nal, ordered each ship to run under his lee quarter, and 
as they did so, were ordered to make their best way to 



148 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Tunis. The dangerous place in which we found ourselves, 
whether by accident or carelessness, I shall not attempt to say, 
was the Gulf of Cabes, which may be recognized on the 
chart as a dangerous place ; lying between Tripoli and 
Tunis. On our arrival at Tunis, we found the U. S. frigate, 
wliich had arrived the day before, she had made a 
straight course, avoiding the difficulty we had so providen- 
tially escaped, and anchored off Carthage. The officers vis- 
ited this renowned spot, and also Tunis, as often as they 
wished. 

A rather laughable, or what might might have been a 
serious affair, came off while we lay at Carthage. Two 
passed midshipmen, who had quarrelled some months be- 
fore, and at the time of the quarrel, belonged to the same 
ship, but by the changing of officers and crews, these two 
belligerent gentleman had been separated ; but had always, 
since the quarrel, been determined to settle the matter hon- 
orably, on the first opportunity that presented itself. Ac- 
cordingly, the preliminaries for a duel were arranged, and a 
meeting had on the beach at Carthge with pistols. They had 
exchanged shots before, but neither had been lucky enough to 
hit his antagonist. They were now determined to fix the 
matter up, man fashion. So they measured their distance, 
and fired. But where the bullets went, no one could tell ; 
it was certain, however, that neither of them did any harm. 

The friends (?) loaded up again, and one, two, three, fire ! 
and no one either killed or wounded yet. They now con- 
cluded, at the suggestion of the seconds, to try small swords ; 
when, after about twenty-five minutes, P — e received a scratch 
upon one of his ribs, which decided the battle in favor of the 
hero, who first drew blood. So ended this tragic affair. 

There are some interesting remains of old Carthage 
still to be seen. Some very large broken columns still stand- 
ins: on the heights, and traces of the old walls are still 
visible. Hannibal's wells are shown, but now nearly filled 
up. The top of the hill presents a beautiful view ; away 
toward the eastward is the Lybian desert, and near by the 
pretty and busy town of Tunis. At the goletta there are 
some guns left mounted, whose calibres are twenty-one inches 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 149 

in diameter; these were intended for stone shot. The short 
passage from Carthage to Tunis is through a lake of water 
so highly impregnated with salt, that the spray is ruinous to 
fine clothes. 

News had just reached Tunis, that Lord Exmouth had 
completely demolished Algiers. This caused us to hasten 
there with all possible dispatch, fearing that our consul 
might be in danger. We ran down in two days, and entered 
the Bay. The commodore, being ahead with the signal fly- 
ing at the masthead, "jwepareto anchor; 1 ' but scarcely had 
the signal been run up, when a boat was discovered coming 
off with great speed, and a man standing up waving his hat. 
The signal for anchoring was annuled, and another to tack 
ship, hoisted in its stead. We all tacked and backed our * 
main yards for the boat. She soon reached the commodore ; * 
and in the boat was Mr. Shaler, our consul, who told the 
commodore, as our ships were seen entering the Bay, he 
had received a message from the captain of the port, advising 
him to go himself, or send a messenger to prevent the ships 
from approaching within gunshot of the batteries, as the 
Dey had declared that he would fire upon them if they an- 
chored within his limits. "For," said he, "I have been 
deceived once, and am determined not to be deceived again." 

We stood out beyond gunshot range, and anchored. Ex- 
mouth's fieet had been gone only a few days, and everything 
was in great confusion on shore. The Dey alluded to the 
manner in which Lord Exmouth had brought his ships close 
into the mole, and commenced firing while the negotiation 
was pending. The particulars of this bombardment I was 
fortunate enough to obtain in England, and as it must be in- 
teresting, to any one, to learn that this abominable nest of 
Pirates have received from Lord Exmouth a severe chastise- 
ment, and also, of the subsequent total destruction of this 
Piratical government. It will be recollected, that a few 
months since, when we left Port Mahon, with the Ferdinand, 
that Lord Exmouth, with the Boyne, 90, and 5 ships of the 
line, sailed for Algiers. After our treaty had been accepted 
and signed by the Dey, the British consul represented to the 



1 50 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Dey, that the treaty with the Americans was on much more 
favorable terms than that with his Majesty's government, 
and earnestly requested that certain alterations might b3 
made, that England might stand on as favorable terms as 
any other great nation. To this the Dey replied, ihat in the 
treaty with the United States, he had relinquished the gun- 
powder, which he much regretted, and considered it unjust 
in the American President, to insist on withholding the pow- 
der as one of the articles of the treaty; and he therefore 
could not relinquish it from the British treaty. The Eng- 
lish consul told him that his Majesty's government had many 
more ships, and much larger, than those of the Americans, 
and could bring a strong force at any time against him. 
The Dey very indignantly turned away, saying, "very well, 
let them come ; I am ready for them." 

And when Lord Exmouth's fleet appeared in the offing, 
the consul waited upon the Dey, informing him of the ar- 
rival of his Lordship, who had come for the purpose cf ran- 
soming the Christian prisoners. The consul endeavored to 
draw his attention to the ships, as they could easily be seen 
from the castle, thinking, possibly, that their formidable ap- 
pearance might have some effect in a renewal of the treaty. 
It was reported that some English officers while passing the 
Dey's palace, did not, as was customary with all who passed, 
lift their hats. The guard, on noticing this omission of re- 
spect, stepped out, and motioned to these gentlemen that 
they must touch their hats, which, on their refusing to do. a 
soldier raised his hand to lift the hat himself, the officer put 
out his arm to keep the Algerine off, when the latter with 
his ciincter made a blow at him, and cut off a part of his 
hand. This was a commencement of hostilities, which the 
English account, which I now give, will fully explain. It 
was also reported, that when Lord Exmouth arrived at Gib- 
raltar only a few days after the above insult, the officers and 
English residents of the garrison, severely censured his lord- 
ship for not resenting the insult immediately, by tiring upon 
the City ; and on his arrival in England, much indignation 
was expressed towards him throughout the country, particu- 
larly by the admiralty, who ordered him to Portsmouth, and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 1 5 1 

there to select what number of ships he wanted, and go im- 
mediately back, and retrieve his own, and the honor of his 
country. Here follows the English account, which commen- 
ces from Gibraltar bay ; the fleet having been fitted with 
unusual dispatch, and arriving at Gibraltar bay, Wednesday, 
1-ith August, 1816. 

" Wednesday, 14th, 1816. Lord Exmouth arrived at Gib- 
raltar with the powerful fleet which the Lords of the Admi- 
ralty had placed at his command, for the purpose of either 
reducing Algiers, or of obliging the Dey to submit to a 
treaty which had been prepared ; annulling many of the 
articles contained in the former, and inserting others which 
would place the English consul on an equal footing with the 
consul of the United States. Also, on a demand for the im- 
mediate release of all Christian prisoners, with reparation 
for insults offered to the British consul. 

" His majesty 's brig, Prometheus, had been dispatched to 
Algiers to bring away the consul's family in a private man- 
ner previous to the arrival of the fleet. But Capt. Dash wood 
succeeded only in bringing; awav the consul's family, the 
consul being detained under the following circumstances. 

" The Dey, having heard of the expedition through the 
French papers, felt suspicious that something was going on 
when the Prometheus arrived there, and having discovered 
that the consul's wife and daughter had embarked, disguised 
in midshipmen's clothes, the discovery having been made 
through a female Jew servant who had been employed as 
nurse to her child, she felt it her duty to tell the Rabbi, who 
immediately through fear of bringing the Jews into trouble, 
apprised the Dey of what had happened. He would not 
permit the consul to leave, but instantly put him in irons 
to which was attached a heavy chain, and confined him in a 
small room in the ground floor of his house ; and also de- 
tained two boats with eighteen men belonging to the Pro- 
metheus. 

" Capt. Dashwood was obliged to sail without them as he 
expected the arrival of the fleet every moment. 

"On the 26th August, Lord Exmouth arrived, ran in, 
anchored his ships in fine style abreast the batteries, to the 



152 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

utter astonishment and consternation of the Turks. A boat 
with a flag of truce was immediately dispatched toward the 
shore with an interpreter and a letter for the Dey. It was 
expected of course that a boat from the shore would meet 
them before they had approached near enough to be in 
danger, which however was the case. A long and prevarica- 
ting conference on the part of the Algerine government, 
determined Lord Exmouth to demand immediate decision, 
which they not only refused to do, but opened their batteries 
upon the fleet. 

" No sooner was the smoke seen than his lordship gave the 
order, ' Fire, my good fellows ! ' and I am sure that before 
his lordship had finished those words, our broadside was given 
with cheering which was three times within rive or six min- 
utcs, and at the same instant the other ships did the same. 
This first fire was so terrible that they say more than five 
hundred persons were killed and wounded by it, and I believe 
this, because there was a great crowd of persons in every 
part, many of whom, after the first discharge, I saw running 
away under the walls like dogs, walking upon their feet and 
hands. After the attack took place on both sides in this 
horrible manner, immediately the sky was darkened by 
smoke, the sun completely eclipsed, and the horizon became 
dreary. Being exhausted by the heat of the powerful sun, 
to which I was exposed during the whole day, my ears being 
deafened by the noise of the guns, and finding myself in 
this dreadful danger of such a terrible engagement, in which 
I had never been before, I was quite at a loss, and like an 
astonished and stupid man, and knew not where I was. At 
last, his lordship, having perceived my situation, said, ' You 
have done your duty ; now go below.' Upon which I began 
to descend from the quarter-deck, quite confounded and ter- 
rified, and not certain that I should reach the cockpit alive, 
for it was terrible to hear the whizzing of the shot, to see 
the wounded men brought from one part and the killed from 
another ; and especially, at such a time, to be found among 
the English seamen ! To witness their manners, their ac- 
tivity, their courage, and their cheerfulness during the bat- 
tle ! It is really overpowering and beyond imagination. On 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 153 

this subject I wish to make one remark. While I was going 
below, I was stopped near the hatchway by a crowd of sea- 
men who were carrying two wounded men to the cockpit, 
and I had leisure to observe the management of those heavy 
mins on the lower deck. 1 saw the crews of the two guns 
nearest the hatchways ; they were out of wads and sung out for 
them, and not being immediately supplied, two of them, with 
an oath, took out their knives and cut the breasts of their 
jackets off and rammed them into the guns for wads. 

" At last I reached the cockpit, when Mr. Dewar, the sur- 
geon, Mr. Frowd, the chaplain, and Mr. Somerville, the pur- 
ser, with some friends, met me and began to congratulate me 
on my safe return, for they never expected I should escape. 
They gave me some refreshment, but I could eat nothing, 
I only drank a little wine and water. Now I wished to as- 
sure myself if I was out of danger or not. I asked how 
much we were above water. They told me we were pretty 
safe, because the cockpit was about two or three feet below 
the water line, and that I had nothing to fear, as I was now 
out of the greatest danger. Hearing this, relieved me, but 
having heard that several shots had passed through our 
ship between wind and water, and that the carpenter had 
stopped the holes, I then lost the idea of perfect safety, and 
walked fearfully into the cockpit. 

" Observing that the action was going on without any ap- 
pearance of ceasing, I began to encourage myself by think- 
ing that every living being is uncertain of his existence, and 
that, through life, we are continually exposed to the mercy 
of circumstances, and thus I commenced assisting those poor 
men after their wounds were dressed, for humanity and nat- 
ural sensibility at such a dreadful time, call upon everybody 
to pity and help the unfortunate. Some of them could not 
walk, others were deprived of their sight, and some were to 
be carried from one place to another. It was, indeed, a most 
pitiable sight ; hut I think the most shocking sight was the 
amputation of limbs, in preference to beholding which, if I 
were a military man, I should certainly prefer being on deck 
than with the doctor in the cockpit, 

"From curiosity I wished to observe the doctor's operations. 



1 54 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

But while observing the first operation, which was the am- 
putation of an arm, I could not bear it, and began to faint, 
especially when the doctor commenced sawing the bone. I 
then went away. At this time I saw Lieutenant John Fred- 
erick Johnstone come down the cockpit, wounded in his cheek. 
After the wound had been dressed, he remained a short time, 
laughing. He asked me to assist him to put on his coat, 
and went to the hatchway, wishing to go on deck again. I 
then held him by the shoulders to hinder him, and said, 
'Where are you going? you are wounded/ In reply, he 
said, ' I am very well now, and must go immediately.' 
After two hour's time I saw him, poor fellow, brought down 
to the cock-pit again by four seamen, with his left arm nearly 
taken from his shoulder, and when I met him in that state, 
he could not bear to be carried, but wished to lie down where 
he was, and began to call ' Doctor ! Doctor ! ' when we all 
took care of him, and the Doctor came and amputated his 
arm quite from the joint to the shoulder. I saw that the 
side of his breast was terribly torn. After the wound was 
dressed, we laid him on a sofa with great care, and were all 
very sorry, and did not expect he would live. 

" After he had been a week between life and death, the 
doctor began to give us some hope ; and so by degrees, we 
saw him almost out of danger, and shook hands with him ; 
when, some days after, he wrote a letter to his friends in 
England, and we were all happy in seeing him getting bet- 
ter ; (although the doctor still feared he would bleed again) 
and Lord Exmouth took him to his own cabin, and conferred 
upon him the greatest care in every possible manner. 

"Better indeed would it have been for us to have endured 
the grief of his death all at once, when he was first wounded, 
than to have him with us thirty-six days after the battle, and 
then to bury him before his own home. 

" This melancholy event gave us double sorrow. This brave 
and unfortunate young officer was about 25 years old. He 
was wounded ©n the 27th of August, and continued to get 
better until the 27th of September. On the 28th, his wound 
bled again, when the doctor was obliged to cut the flesh and 
take up that vein, in order to stop the blood. But poor John- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 155 

stone, being very thin and weak, survived the operation five 
days only, and at 6 o'clock on the evening of the 3d of 
October, departed this life. At 12 next day, he was buried 
in the sea, when we had arrived opposite Plymouth, with 
great honor and ceremeny. Minute guns were fired ; the 
Royal standard was waved over his coffin, and the flags of 
all the ships were hoisted at half-mast, and his Lordship 
and all the other officers were at his funeral. But to con- 
tinue. 

"About this time I was sorry to see my friend Mr. Grimes 
(his Lordship's secretary) conducted below: he had received 
several wounds from splinters, and was obliged to quit the 
deck from loss of blood, having seen that the battle was 
going on favorably ; and the Algerines, after fighting ex- 
tremely well for about five hours, began to slacken their 
firing. 

" And after that, our seamen, every time an Algerine frigate 
took fire, or any of the batteries were destroyed, gave a loud 
cheer. I began to have more courage, and jumped up 
now and then, to the lower deck, to see what was going on ; 
so, for the rest of the action, employed myself in passing 
the empty powder boxes to the magazine ; because I found 
it more agreeable than watching; the doctor. 

" 1 observed with much astonishment, that during all the 
time Of the battle, not one seaman appeared fatigued, nor 
lamented the dreadful continuation of the fight ; but on the 
contrary, the longer it lasted, the more cheerful and pleas- 
ant they were. 

" Notwithstanding, during the greater part of the battle, 
the firing was most tremendous on our side, particularly from 
this ship, the firing of which was kept up with equal fury, 
which did not cease, though bis Lordship in several in- 
stances wished to cease firing for a short time, in order to 
make his observations ; and it was with great difficulty he 
could make the seamen stop for a few minutes. 

'• Several of the a'uns were so hot that they could not use 
them again ; some of them being heated to such a degree, 
that when fired, they recoiled with their carriages with such 



150 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



force, that the trucks ploughed into the deck, and some were 
dismounted and rendered useless. 

"At eleven o'clock, P. ML, his Lordship having observed 
the destruction of the whole Algerine navy, and the strong;- 
est parts of their batteries, with the city, made a signal to 
the fleet to move out of the line of the batteries ; and thus 
with a favorable breeze we cut our cables, and as well as the 
whole squadron, made sail. Our tiring ceased at about half 
past eleven, when the action was over. Mr. Stair, (the gun- 
ner,) came out from the magazine and said that he was 
about seventy years old, and that in his life he had been in 
more than twenty actions ; but that he never knew or heard 
of any action that had consumed so great a quantity of 
powder as this. 

"After the ships had hauled out without any danger, (al- 
though the Aljxerines began to throw shells from the hig-her 
castles.) I went on to the poop to see his Lordship, and to 
observe the effect of our shot on the enemy's batteries, and 
to behold the destruction of their navy, which, at this time, 
with the storehouse within the mole, was burning very rap- 
idlv. The blaze illuminated all the bav. The town, with 
the environs, were almost as clear as in daytime ; the view 
of which was awful and beautiful. Nine friffates, with a 
great number of gunboats, with other vessels, being all in 
flames, and carried bv the wind to different directions in 
the bay. 

" 1 observed with great surprise, how. in these nine hour's 
time, our shot had effected such horrible destruction in their 
batteries. Instead of walls, I saw nothing but heaps of 
rubbish, and a number of people dragging the dead bodies 
out. When I met his Lordship on the poop, his voice was 
quite hoarse, and he had two slight wounds; one on his 
cheek and the other on the leg. 

" On the morning; after the battle, Wednesday, 28th August 
Admiral Lord Exmouth wrote the following letter to the 
Dey :— 

To His Highness, the Dey of Algiers : 

Sir, — For your atrocities at Bona on defenceless Christians, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 157 

and your unbecoming disregard to the demand I made yes- 
tcrday, in the name of the Prince Eegent of England, the 
fleet, under ray orders has given you a signal chastisement, 
by the total destruction of your navy, storehouses and arse- 
nal, with half your batteries. As England does not war for 
the destruction of cities, I am unwilling to visit your personal 
cruelties upon the inoffensive inhabitants of the country ; and 
I therefore offer you the same terms of peace, which I con- 
veyed to you yesterday, in my sovereign's name. Without 
the acceptance of these terms you can have no peace with 
England. If you receive this offer as you ought, you will 
fire three guns : and I shall consider your not making this 
signal as a refusal, and I shall renew my operation at my 
own convenience. I offer you the above terms, provided 
neither the British Consul nor the officers and men so wick- 
edly seized by you, from the boats of a British ship-of-war, 
have met with any cruel treatment, or any of the Christian 
slaves in your power ; and I repeat my demand, that the 
Consul, officers and men, may be sent off to me, conformably 
to ancient treaties. 

(Signed,) EXMOUTH. 

Queen Charlotte, Algiers Bay, August 28, 1816- 

" After I had translated this letter, his Lordship gave it to 
me, and ordered me to accompany Lieutenant Burgess on 
shore again, to deliver it and to wait for an answer as yes- 
t< rday, and at the same time gave orders to the bombs to take 
their position, and to be in readiness for renewing the bom- 
bardment. 

" My companion, Mr. Burgess, and myself got into the boat 
with one flag of truce, and rowed towards the city. I was 
not so much afraid as yesterday, in consequence of the de- 
struction of their batteries ; yet, when we got rather too near 
the mole they fired two or three shots at us, from a castle at 
the south end of their fortifications, but fortunately these 
shot fell a few r yards short of our boat. Upon this, we stop- 
ped and began to think seriously. However, after some 
time, we saw a boat coming out of the mole at about eleven 
o'clock, .nevertheless, we were in great doubt whether they 



158 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

were com ins; to meet us civilly, or whether thev would seize 
us, as was their usual practice. 

" When the boat had reached us, I found she had on board 
a person by the name of Omar Capitan, who was commander 
of one of the frigates that was burnt the dav before. He 
asked how the great Admiral was. In reply, I asked how 
the Dey was, and o-ave him the letter, and told him it was 
for the Dey, and that we should wait three hours, as yester- 
day, for an answer ; and in case he did not come in that 
time we were instructed to return on board, and that the 
Dey would never have peace with England on any other 
terms. In answer, he said : 

" ' How ? Yesterday our letters were ready with the 
Dey's answer, but vou would not wait to receive them, aud 
your fleet took its position so suddenly that we had not time 
to look about us, and immediately vou beo;an firing.' 

" ' You must excuse me/ said I. ' What you say is not true, 
because yesterday we waited more than three hours for an an- 
swer, notwithstanding two were stated by your captain of the 
port to be sufficient, and it was not our fleet that began the fire 
but your batteries ; and, as a proof of your implacability, 
you see now those shots that have been fired upon us from that 
castle, when we are under a flag of truce, without arms, ex- 
posing ourselves, for your peace and tranquillity.' 

" Then finding himself convicted, he said : ' Everything 
happened by God's decree, and now let us forget the past 
and be greater friends than ever.' 

" ' This must depend,' I answered, ' on the answer which 
your Dey gives to Lord Exmouth's letter, and if the Dey 
wishes to send anybody to treat with our admiral we shall 
receive him with pleasure.' 

'• He replied : ' I hope it will be so ; ' and added : ' You 
must not mind those shots, for they were fired without the 
Dey's order, and he has already sent orders to all the 
fortifications not to fire one gun.' 

" I told him I was sure of that — that those shots were fired 
without any order — because I know your people's character, 
and am certain that when they saw our boat they began to 
say, ' There are the infidels coming ; come, let us kill some 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 159 

of these, to revenge our dead people ; ' and they thought 
by killing two or three people without considering the conse- 
quences, they should have a general revenge." 

" He then laughed and said, ' How do you know that ? ' 
" I said, ' Because I was in your country for some time.' 
" In reply, he said, ' Once you knew our manners ; you 
must not, therefore, consider this as a fault, since we are now 

friends.' 

"I replied, ' On the contrary, just because we are on the 
point of reconciliation, I must consider it as an extraordinary 
fault." 

" He then said, " You Europeans are very religious people, 
and we are not able to debate with you.' And then he went 
away, saying, ' I hope to be back again directly with a good 
answer from the Dey, and then,' he added, ' you may come 
near to the city, because you are too far off with your boat 
now ; you must be afraid of nothing.' He rowed his boat 
towards the mole, to behold more distinctly the effect of our 
action. From his conversation and manner I understood that 
they were very glad to make an end of the business. He 
went in, and we stopped outside the mole, waiting for the 
Dey's answer. 

" During this time, I was indeed quite surprised to see the 
horrible state of the batteries and the mole since the preced- 
ing day. I could not now distinguish how it was erected, 
nor where the batteries had stood, as well as many fine 
bouses which I had seen in the city the day previous ; and 
I observed too, that they had not more than four or five guns 
mounted on the carriages. Besides, the bay was full of hulks 
of their navy, smoking in every direction, and the water in- 
side and out of the mole was black, and covered with char- 
coal and half burnt pieces of wood. But the most shocking 
and dreadful sight was the number of dead bodies which 
were floating on the surface of the water. Among the bod- 
ies we saw a white one, which afterwards, on finding it was 
one of our seamen, we took it with us on board, and waited 
therefor about one hour and a half. And at half past one we 
saw three guns tired from the shore, and at the same time a 
boat coming; out of the mole. Then I understood that the 



160 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Dey was prepared for his own and for the Algerines happi- 
ness, to accept our demands ; and I began to thank Almighty 
God for this glorious success. 

" When the boat came near to ours I saw the captain of the 
port, with the Swedish Consul on board. The former paid 
his compliments, and asked to go on board with us to meet 
his Lordship, with the Swedish Consul, who was sent by the 
Dey to speak with him. Meantime the consul said : " I am 
authorized by the Dey to have a consultation with Lord Ex- 
mouth, relative to the arrangement of the treaty. There 
were many points in the treaty which the Dey demurred at 
most bitterly ; — such as giving up the three hundred thou- 
sand dollars which he had recently received for the ransom 
of the Sardinian prisoners ; the relinquishing his annual 
tribute of powder, and of being forced to sign a treaty dicta- 
ted under such humiliating circumstances. 

" He knew there was no alternative — he must either accept 
the treaty or his destruction was sure ; and not only must he 
receive the English treaty, but that of the Dutch also, who, 
by the way, were solely indebted to Lord Exmouth for the 
termination of their war, which had already lasted nearly 
three years, and in all probability would have continued un- 
til the destruction of Algiers by the French, in 1827. 

" At length matters were so far advanced, that officers from 
both the English and Dutch fleets visited the shore for the 
purpose of consummating this important business. The nar- 
rator goes on to say : ' When we entered the consul's house, 
it was full of rubbish, and we counted thirty shots of various 
sizes, collected there by the servants. We walked through 
the house, and < Served one small room of ten fret square. 
In this room, Mr. Mc. Donnell, our consul, wished to re- 
main when the Dey arrested him, but it was too good a room 
for their malicious disposition, so they refused to let him stay 
there, and confined him in a dark room below, which, fortu- 
nately, was the cause of his safety, as will soon appear. 

" We ascertained that nine shots had passed through the 
very room where the consul had wished to remain. We 
went on to the top of the house to observe the whole city, al- 
though it is ordered that no Christian shall appear there, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 161 

as throughout the whole coast of Barbary it is prohibited for 
a Christian to appear on the top of his house, and if any one 
should violate this order, he would be immediately shot, be- 
cause they believe that the Christians come there to see 
their women. 

" The next business to be attended to after the ratification 
of the treaty and re-establishing the consul in his diplomat- 
ic position, was to see that the prisoners were all brought in 
from the country, ready to embark when the appointed ship 
should be ready to receive them. The cruel treatment of 
these poor slaves being in an excessive degree barbarous, my 
feelings do not permit me to describe it in detail. I only 
wish to present a small idea of it by mentioning the follow- 
ing points. When the Algerines or any of the Barbary pi- 
rates capture an European or an American vessel, they seize 
their goods, and every species of property they can get hold 
of ( they do not touch the money the prisoners have in their 
pockets) and put them immediately in chains. There are 
three classes of chains, viz : of one hundred, of sixty, and of 
thirty pounds weight. The one hundred pounds are for 
strong men ; the sixty for old men, and the thirty for young 
persons.^ These heavy chains are placed around the body as a 
sash, with a long piece of chain hung on the right leg, and 
joined by a heavy ring, to be placed upon the foot. All these 
chains are shut by a lock, and never can be taken off. Thus, 
these poor fellows must walk any distance whatever, and work, 
sleep and live always with these chains ; the marks of which 
I have seen round their bodies and their legs in very deep 
furrows eaten into their flesh, which becomes black and as 
hard as bone, the sight of which is truly distressing. After 
these poor creatures are put in chains, they make them work 
at the hardest work ; as cutting stone from the mountains, 
felling trees, carrying sand and stones for building, moving 
guns from one place to another, and such kinds of laborious 
work. They have no machines to facilitate the workmen ; 
all must be done by the strength of these poor people. 
Every ten slaves are bound together, and followed by a 
guard with a whip in his hand ; and if any one of them has 
occasion to perform any natural evacuation, they went all 



102 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

together, whether by night or day. They sleep all together 
on the ground, in a large stable, with a mat under them. 
If any of them have money then they can make themselves 
rather more comfortable. 

" The government allows to each person for every clay of 
the week, (except Friday.) a loaf of eight or ten ounces of a 
very black kind of bread, made of barley and beans, one 
handful of peas, and a small measure not larger than a 
thimble of oil ; that is the whole of their food ; and on 
Friday nothing at all. 

" An Aga of the Janizaries of Algiers, observing the miser- 
able state" of the prisoners, and the inhumanity with which 
they were treated, was induced by his feelings to allow them 
a portion of meat and wheat bread for every Friday, on 
which day they would have had nothing. This allowance 
was continued for several years; but for their misfortune 
this good man died of about a middle age ; and nobody, 
after him, was so humane as to follow his benevolent exam- 
ple. And thus these unfortunate creatures were again de- 
prived of assistance and continued to pass their lives as before 
till the Divine Providence released them through the medi- 
um, and through the exalted and merciful government of 
Great Britain. 

" The troops seeing several ships coming near the town to 
receive the slaves, and to take away our anchors from the 
environs of the mole, thought that they were agoing to re- 
new the attack, or to do "some improper thing ; and they 
rushed into the mole with their arms. Some of them, when 
our boats shoved off with the slaves, were so brutish as to fire 
several musket shots, which fortunately passed over the 
boats. On my arrival on board, I reported this conduct to 
his Lordship, who ordered mo to claim redress for it, from 
the Dey. On the next day, after all the slaves were em- 
barked on board the two transports, and anchored near the 
Queen Charlotte, they all came on deck, on the shrouds, and 
on the yards, exclaiming and shouting in the same words as 
before ; and giving cheers and plaudits to every ship: so that 
it was a most joyful noise on both sides. Lord Exmouth 
then gave orders to have them counted. We took a list of 



Sicilians, - - 


- 236 


Tuscans, - - 


- 6 


Portuguese, - 
Dutch, - - - 


1 

- 28 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 1 63 

people of eacli nation, and they amounted to one thousand 
and eighty-three in the whole. Then his Lordship ordered 
them to be embarked on board several ships to convey them 
to their respective countries, which was done according to the 
follow in a: table : 

Neapolitans, - - - 471 

Romans, - - - - 173 

Spaniards,- - - - 161 

Greeks, 7 

" The Wasp was ordered to call and receive such slaves as 
might be at Bona ; and the Mutine proceeded to Oran for 
the same purpose. Five Spaniards were afterwards brought 
by the Mutine, from Oran to Gibraltar ; and fifty slaves had 
been sent from Oran to Algiers, previously to the Mutine's 
arrival, to be conveyed to their respective homes, through the 
medium of the British Consul. All the slaves therefore 
amounted to eleven hundred and thirty-eight, besides those of 
Constantina, and Bona, -who were seventy-three in number; 
making in the whole, twelve hundred and eleven slaves. 
Besides these, there were released by Lord Exmouth on his 
first visit to Algiers, Tunis and Tripoli, seventeen hundred 
and ninety-two slaves ; making a grand total of thirty hun- 
dred and three helpless victims restored from slavish durance, 
to liberty. 

"This was the number of slaves we knew of ; and if in 
process of time, we or our consul come to understand that 
any other slave is detained in any part of the kingdom of 
Algiers, the Dey is obliged to produce him, and give him up 
to the British Consul. 

" Saturday, 31st. In the morning, a Neapolitan slave came 
on board the Queen Charlotte, and told me that his son, a 
little boy eight years old, was detained by a lady, in the city 
of Algiers, and that she had made him a Mahometan. I di- 
rectly reported this to his Lordship, who had also received in 
telligencc that the Dey had detained still in chains two Span- 
iards : one of whom was the Vice Consul at Oran, named 
Don Hequira, and the other a merchant, named Don Sebas- 
tina Padrone: — both had been unjustly arrested, put in 
chains, and doomed to hard work from the time of the revo- 



101 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

lution at Oran, in the year 1813, against the former Dey of 
Algiers. 

" His Lordship then directed Capt. Brisbane to go with me 
on shore to claim the little boy and the two Spaniards from 
the Dey. At noon I went on shore with Capt. Brisbane, fur 
the receipts of the money ; and it was the tirst business 
which we had to do with the Dey previous to any contest 
respecting the Neapolitan boy, and the two Spaniards. Capt. 
Brisbane remained at the consul's house, and I went to the 
Dey's palace, where I found all the sum put up ready in the 
court yard of the palace. 1 met the treasurer, who asked me 
in what manner I intended to receive it ? He wished to deliver 
it to me while I was in the palace, and that I would take care of 
it until it should be embarked. But I refused, and told him 
I would count one thousand dollars, replace it in the bag, 
and put it into a balance, and by that means should receive 
all the sum by weight, that afterwards he must send the 
money by his own people down to the mole where our officers 
would receive it, by counting and putting it into their boats. 
After considerable controversy, and much shuffling; on the 
part of the Dey, the money was conveyed to the boats by his 
own men, and duly received by the officer appointed for this 
particular department. 

" Capt. Brisbane notified the Dey that on the morrow at an 
early hour, boats would be sent for those prisoners that were 
in town. Also, a request that those in the country should be 
brought in without delay. The hypocritical scoundrel then 
said to Capt. Brisbane, that some of them were many miles 
in the interior, and that a hasty march would fatigue them 

* In the year 1813, the Dey of Oran rebelled against the former 
Dev of Algiers, (Hagi AH Pashaw, of which I shall give a full account in 
another part of my narrative.) and after having been killed by order of 
said Dey, two of his sons escaped with their money and some jewels of 
their own, and went to Malaga ; upon which the Dey put the said Span- 
ish vice consul in irons, and made him become responsible for the return 
of the fugitives, but as he (the Dey,) had received no satisfactory answer 
from the Spanish government, he availed himself of an occasion over the 
other Spanish merchant in consequence of a law suit on some mercantile 
business to put him in chains too, (according to his idea of justice,) and 

■ ited them worse than slaves. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 105 

very much ! He was very humane all at once, fearing now 
that the march would fatigue them, but when he had them 
in chains, (some of whom had worn them thirty years.) and 
made them perform the most laborious and servile work, 
with miserable food and barbarous treatment, now afraid 
that their joyful march to emancipation would fatigue them. 

" When our boats came inside the mole, I wished to receive 
the slaves from the captain of the port by numbers, but 
could not, because they began directly to push and throw 
themselves into the boats by crowds of ten or twenty togeth- 
er, so that it was impossible to count them. Then I told him 
that we should make an exact list of them in order to know 
their amount. It was indeed a most glorious and ever-mem- 
orable and merciful act, for England all over Europe to see 
these poor slaves, when our boats were shoving off from the 
shore, all at once to take off their hats and exclaim in Italian, 

" ' Viva il Re'd 'Inglitera, II Padre eterno ! e'l ammiraglio 
Inglese che ci ha liberato da questo secundo inferno !' 

" [Long live the king of England, the Eternal Father ! and 
the English Admiral who delivered us from this second hell.] 

" And afterwards they began to prove what they had suf- 
fered by beating their breasts and loudly swearing at the 
Algerines. I spoke with some of these unfortunate people 
who had been thirty-five years in slavery, and had become so 
inured to hardship and the most servile slavery, that when 
told they were free, could scarcely comprehend the term ; but 
soon their hearts began to expand, as the blood of freedom 
circulated through them. They were all well received on 
board their ship, comfortably provided for, and carried to 
their respective countries. All things now being duly ar- 
ranged between the several governments, the ships got under 
way to return to England. 

" Thus ended one of the most sanguinary bombardments 
that England had ever been engaged in. the Dey, villain 
as he was 5> fought like a hero, cheering his men at the differ- 
ent batteries, and worked hard himself, he being a brave 
man, encouraging his men to repel the infidels. When I 
went with the dispatches on the first day of the attack, I 
saw his own flag hoisted on the tight horse batterv. This 



1G6 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

particular flag is carried with him, always to be hoisted when 
he takes his station. It is of red, white, and yellow stripes. 
But the strongest proof of his being in the batteries is, that 
when I met him on the second day of the battle, I saw that 
all the folds of his turban and dress were full of dust and 
smoke of powder, as well as his face and beard. The num- 
ber of killed and wounded on board the British ships was . 
eight hundred and fifty-two ; in the Dutch squadron, killed 
and wounded sixty-five. The loss of the Algerines is not 
even known to themselves, because they do not take care of 
their people as we do. They have no surgeons to dress the 
wounded men directly. They never perform the operation 
of amputating limbs to save the life of a person, but on the 
contrary, put all their wounded men into a large stable till 
the day after the battle, by which many who might have 
been saved by the immediate amputation of an arm or leg, 
were left to perish. Of their killed and wounded I had sev- 
eral reports ; some said the number was about eight thousand, 
some six thousand, some five thousand, and some four thou- 
sand. I am sure, however, that their loss must have been 
very great, because they said that if the Dey had not ordered 
the gates of the city to be opened during the battle, to let 
the rest of the inhabitants run away, (though a great part 
of them had left the town ten days previous to the fleet's 
arrival,) numbers more would have been killed ; never- 
theless many were killed by the explosion of our shells and 
by the rockets in the city, and while they were going out of 
town, whose bodies were afterwards found. The Mahometans 
in burying their dead are followed by a great number of men 
and women crying and howling, as well as a great number of 
men, who are continually rushing forward to carry the coffin, 
confidently certain that each person by supporting the weight 
of the coffins for a few minutes, will assume a portion of the 
dead men's sins, and that the great number of people who 
carry the coflin will diminish the sins of the decased, so that 
ho may go to heaven pure, or without any grievous offence 
on his shoulders. All these customs, while we were at Al- 
giers, wore prohibited by the Dey, andhegave orders to bury 
the dead privately, without making any noise or abusing any 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 167 

ceremony. This proves that the Dey wished not to let the num- 
ber of the dead be known to us. But I learned by many re- 
ports that there were three large houses full of dead bodies, and 
that the people were employed to bury them every night dur- 
ing the week of our stay there. 

" They buried them in a ground separated from the other 
cemetery, because according to Mahometan doctrine, they 
consider every person killed in battle, a martyr, and as the 
attack happened to take place on the fourth of their holidays 
of Eamadan, previous to which they had passed thirty days 
of fasting, they were fully persuaded that the whole of those 
who fell were the purest of martyrs. At first they thought 
that our rockets were a kind of signal rockets ; but, when 
some of them had burst among the troops and killed a great 
number, then they changed their opinion, especially when 
several of the rockets fell on board their navy and some of 
the houses. They wished to put the fire out by water, but 
found that the more water they had, the more ardent the 
flame became. The materials of the composition, they said, 
stuck to the wood and penetrated like oil, the effect of which 
filled them with horror. 

" The quantities of powder and shot spent in this tremendous 
action are really so surprising that I thought the following 
detail worthy of insertion. Two hundred and sixteen thou- 
sand six hundred and fifty-eight pounds powder, forty-one 
thousand two hundred and eight round shot, nine hundred 
and sixty shells, thirteen and sixteen inches. This is the 
British squadron. On board the Dutch fleet, forty-six thou- 
sand- one hundred and nineteen pounds of powder, ten 
thousand one hundred and forty-eight round shot, making in 
all, two hundred and sixtv-two thousand seven hundred and 
seventy -seven pounds of powder, fifty-one thousand three 
hundred and fifty-six round shot. These incredible quanti- 
ties of powder and shot, which are nearly one hundred and 
eighteen tons of the former, and five hundred tons of the 
latter, were spent in the course of about nine hours. And I 
think the Algerines very justly observed : that, 

" ' Hell had op?ned its mouth against them through the 
English shins; ' 



168 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" Previous to our arrival at Algiers, tliev heard that the 
British fleet consisted of fifty sail, and then they said, ' Let 
them come ! What can they do with their fifty sail? The 
Spaniards once came here with four hundred sail and forty 
thousand men, and could not succeed against us.' They 
were on this account fully persuaded that their country was 
unconquerable. 

" The whole of the Algerine damage, in my humble judg- 
ment, after many reports and information, may be computed 
about a million sterling:. Many of the inhabitants of Al- 
giers, and neaily all the people of the interior, were quite 
glad at our success, as they expected we were going to take 
possession of the kingdom and release them from the tyranny 
of the Turks ; for being very badly treated they are dissatisfied 
with that government, and if they could free themselves 
from the slavery .which they suffer under the Turks, they 
would do it with the greatest pleasure. 

" The Kingdom of Algiers extends about sixteen hundred 
miles in circumference ; is very fertile, producing much corn 
and many species of vegetables, indigo and wool. They have 
many cattle, sheep, fowls, and on this coast a famous coral 
fishery. This fertile and beautiful coast has been for many 
centuries in the hands of pirates, the fear and dread of 
every nation under heaven, and gladly paying to them an- 
nually, immense tributes, quality and quantity dictated by 
their haughty Dey. The peasantry have always been op- 
pressed, not daring to call their crops their own, most exor- 
bitantly taxed, and so sorely, that they placed very little 
value on their lives, and often for the most trifling: offence 
their heads were cut off; and quite in desperation, parties of 
the country people rush upon the Turkish tax-gatherers, and 
put them to death. 

" The government of Algiers is made up of the most con- 
summate villains throughout Turkey. All the murderers, 

« 

thieves and vagabonds from Constantinople come here, and 
enlist under the banners of the Dey of Algiers, and notwith- 
standing that these piratical rascals would not hesitate to 
kill a Christian, any more than they would a dog, yet when 
our purser purchased a quantity of live stock consisting 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 160 

chiefly of sheep and fowls, the soldier at the gate would not 
allow them to pass without an order from the captain of the 
port, as they do not allow the Christians to have live animals, 
because they say that we strangle them, and do not kill them 
as we should by cutting their throats. The Mahometans in 
general, when they wish to kill any kind of animal, prepare 
always a very sharp knife ; and previously to cutting its 
throat, use the following words : 

" ' May God give thee endurance to bear what is predes- 
tined thee in the name of Almighty God. ? 

11 And immediately they pass the knife twice round the 
throat of the animal, and hold it till it discharges all the 
blood. On this account, they say that the animals suffer a 
great deal under our hands by our style of killing them, and 
they are allowed to eat in case of necessity, any meat killed 
by the Jews, and not that killed by the Christians, because 
they consider our meat as stifled. 

" The Dey with whom the treaty with the English, Amer- 
ican and Dutch was made, was named Omar Pashaw. He 
was between forty-five and fifty years of age, of a short 
make, and about five feet six inches in height, and well 
shaped ; but his appearance was altogether savage, and his 
malevolent and violent spirit, marked by an exterior coldness 
and apathy. He could neither read nor write ; was a native 
of Mytilene in the Archipelago, and came from thence to 
Algiers as a common soldier, but being a brave one, was pro- 
moted to Bulook-Bashlike, to Beeng Bashlike the former 
captain of a company. The latter, captain of a thousand, 
afterwards, in the year 1813, at the revolution at Oran, he 
was created by his predecessor, Hagi All Pashaw, Aga, or 
chief of the Janizaries, in consequence of having distinguished 
himself by his bloody and ferocious cruelty, (which was not 
less than that of his said predecessor, of whose horrid acts 
we give a full account,) in the execution of the Bey of Oran, 
under the following shocking circumstances : 

" The Bey of Oran was born there, of a Turkman and an 
Algerine woman. Being of rather a good character, he was 
elected by the inhabitants to be their governor. After some 
time the former Dey, Hagi Ali Pashaw, came to the throne ; 



170 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and being of a very bloody disposition, had committed many 
shocking crimes, such as beheading people without any rea- 
son, seizing property, plundering and taking away other 
men's wives and daughters, &c., &c, and his troops had fol- 
lowed the same example. At last all the inhabitants of the 
kingdom became tired of these horrid acts. In the vcar 
eighteen hundred and thirteen, the Bey of Oran being very 
popular, and having observed the misconduct of the Dey, 
consulted with his uncle, (his mother's brother, who after- 
wards betrayed him,) to declare himself with the people 
against Hagi AH Pashaw, and to drive all the Turks from 
the kingdom and to make their government free and hered- 
itary like those of Tunis and Tripoli. 

After his uncle had agreed with him, he wrote to the 
Tunisians to come to his assistance, and promised them 
that he would annul the annual tribute, ( paid by the Tunis- 
ian government to that of Algiers,) and would then remain 
a friend to them forever. These proposals were accepted by 
the Tunisians, who were very glad to drive the Turks out 
of the Barbary coast. They made their preparations, and 
marched from one part, and the Bey of Oran from another, 
towards the city of Algiers. Hagi Ali Pashaw, on hearing 
of this conspiracy, began to make his preparations, but being 
too late, had not time to oppose both armies, and was obliged 
to call off his troops, and to keep himself within the city, 
notwithstanding he and his people had lost every hope. Ob- 
serving his dangerous situation, he thought of sending a 
letter to the uncle of the Bey of Oran, promising him great 
things if he would put an end to this rebellion. The Bey 
unfortunately succeeded in introducing himself among the 
army of Oran without being discovered, and delivered the 
letter to the treacherous uncle, who believed the false prom- 
ises of the Dey, and began to manage his nephew, (who 
wholly relied on him.) And instead of bringing the army of 
his nephew to unite with the Tunisians at the opposite place, 
he changed the route so as to keep one body apart from the 
other, and sent a private message to Hagi Ali Pashaw to 
come to Buch a place, (where lie intended to remain, togeth- 
er with the army all night, ) and Beize them in the early 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 171 

part of the morning. The Bey of Oran, at the same time 
having suspected something of his uncle's perfidious man- 
agement, deemed it proper to turn back towards Oran again, 
and secure his uncle, who was on his guard, and fled to 
Algiers. 

"After the Bey of Oran had returned to his residence, as 
well as • the Tunisians, without having met each other, the 
Dey of Algiers sent the Aga of the Janizaries, our present 
Dey, with the uncle of the Bey of Oran, to blockade the city 
of Oran, and to bring him the head of the unfortunate Bey. 

" This expedition, by the instigation of the traitor's uncle, 
(who was afterwards beheaded,) was successful. The town was 
surrendered without fighting, and the Aga of the Janizaries 
took possession of it, when the Bey could not escape, but was 
arrested with all his family, except tw T o of his sons who were 
out of town, and were lucky enough to escape to Malaga, in 
consequence of which the Spanish Vice Consul and the mer- 
chant before mentioned, were unjustly arrested, one after 
the other, as has already been explained. After the Aga had 
settled himself at Oran, he sent a message to Hagi Ali, ap- 
prising him of his success, and that he had in his power the 
Bey and family, except the two eldest sons. The Dey's an- 
swer was that he might decapitate the Bey and his uncle 
too, and send both heads to him. He immediately arrested 
the treacherous uncle, who well deserved his fate, and be- 
headed him ; and now, willing to show his bloody and barba- 
rous nature, and with horrid cruelty, perpetrated the follow- 
ing shocking deeds in the execution of the poor Bey. At 
first, he brought out the Bey with his three infant children, 
and in his presence, opened their bellies, took out their 
hearts, roasted them, and made the unhappy father eat 
them, and placed their bodies before him, (the father.) 

" Secondly, he brought the two black slaves, who were con- 
stantly with the Bey, and obliged their master to impale 
them himself. And after the stakes were raised up and 
fixed in the ground, with the two slaves upon them, he made 
the Bey sit down on a red-hot iron waiter and fastened each 
hand to one of the stakes ; afterwards he took a hot iron pot 
and put it on his head ; when this became cold he ordered 



172 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

him to be scalped, and gave him a pipe to smoke, and at last 
opened his side and took out his heart and all his intestines. 
And so the poor unfortunate Bey expired. He afterwards 
took off the whole skin of the Bey's head, filled it with straw, 
and sent it to the Dey. 

u This was once a custom among the Turks ; hut thank 
Heaven, it is now done away. All these horrible executions 
took place before the house where the wife of the unhappy 
Bey was. Any one who possesses human feelings, can 
judge what was the bitterness of such a dreadful impression 
on the senses of this inconsolable wife. There are no terms 
in which to express a proper sense of horror at the atrocities 
of this monster in human form, and as a reward for which, 
he was promoted to the agalik of Janizaries, and after- 
wards raised to the throne. 

" Then I wish to relate, as they were told to me, some of the 
horrid acts of Hagi Ali Pashaw, to show how both characters, 
the Dey and that of his x\ga, agreed one with the other. At 
the palace, the government residence in the city of Algiers, 
the Dey is not allowed to keep any wife. The harem, or 
Dey's wives, are always kept in a separate palace out of 
town, where he visits them every Friday evening only. 
But Hagi Ali Pashaw had two women brought privately into 
the Government palace, and he had besides five Greek boys 
and four black slaves. After some time, when the two 
unfortunate women became pregnant, he took the first, 
opened her belly, took out the child, filled the poor mother 
with salt, and when she was dead, he took the body and cut 
it in pieces, salted it well, and put it into a jar. He took 
the other, and suspended her by the hair to the top of a 
room. He wounded her body with small wounds, and put a 
basin under it to receive the blood ; and so the poor woman 
was kept bleeding by drops, shut up in the room. He visit- 
ed her at intervals, increasing the wounds till she was dead. 
He took her body, salted it, and preserved it in the same way 
as he did the first. After these unfortunate ladies were 
dispatched in this brutal manner, he took the poor Greek 
boys, one after the other, filled their mouths and noses with 
cotton, put them under some heavy mattresses, adding a 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 173 

great weight over them, till they were suffocated. He then 

cut their bodies in pieces, and put them into the private place. 

He turned with the same horrid design towards the black 

slaves, one of whom was his confidant and assistant in 

all his horrid transactions. Having observed that his master 

had already killed two of his black brothers, perceived that 

his turn would come at last, and when his master went into 

the bath of the palace, he, (the slave,) was prepared to shut 

him up in the inner room, which is always kept extremely 

warm, and made a much greater fire than ordinary, until he 

was suffocated. On the next day, the perpetrator "came and 

apprised the Aga of the Janizaries, (the present Dey,) 

saying ' that he was sure his master would have killed him, 

and even now was not sure of his life. But if they killed 

him, he should die with a full satisfaction of having obtained 

the revenge of his brothers, and of those innocent women 

and boys ; and at the same time he had done a great service 

to the poor people of Algiers by killing such a bloody and 

atrocious tyrant as Hagi Ali Pashaw ; ' and began to show 

the salted bodies of the two women, and gave a lull account 

of all the horrible and barbarous deeds of his master. This 

poor fellow was put to death by the present Dey. 

" These are some of the cruel and inhuman acts of the 
former Dey under whose order Omar Pashaw was an Aga 
of the Janizaries. There are still more charges of a vil- 
lanous character against Omar Pashaw since he ascended the 
throne. While he was Bnlook, and Beeng-Bashi, he was 
acquainted with two European families who lived at Algiers, 
as merchants, and frequently dined and drank at "their 
houses, and professed great friendship for them, but did not 
prove it by facts. However, they never expected any thin o> 
from him, but merely wished to keep him a good friend, for 
fear of his villanous character, he being known to be a most 
rapacious and wicked plunderer. 

"After becoming Dey, he sent a message to these two 
friends that they must leave the kingdom. Although they 
were surprised at the news, they went and requested him to 
give them time, till they could settle their affairs with the 
people. He then agreed to allow them six months; but 



1 74 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

some days after that, he called them, and beheaded them in 
his palace, and sent a message to their unhappy families 
to quit Algiers immediately. 

"What is now to he said to this atrocity? Is this his 
gratitude for the hospitality which he had experienced from 
those families ? or the reward and acknowledgment of their 
friendship towards him? Notwithstanding, there are many 
other horrid facts committed by him, which are too horrid to 
relate. One more however, we will narrate. 

"Since Hagi Ali's time, a young Algerine, of a rich 
family, was confined in prison for a debt of about one hun- 
dred thousand dollars, owed to several persons, who, after 
the death of said Dey, having observed that the young man 
had been so long time in prison, and that his father had 
died without leaving him anything to pay his debts, thought 
proper to set him at liberty to take care of his father's prop- 
erty without requiring anything from him, until he should 
become able to pay his debts. But when Omar Pashaw came 
to the throne, he refused to free the young man from prison ; 
put him in chains, and made him work as one of his slaves. 
The creditors said, ' we do not wish to receive one dollar 
from him, we wish to set him free, to take care of the fam- 
ily, and property, &c,' The Dey's answer was, 'you do not 
wish to receive the one hundred thousand dollars from this 
young man, I wish to receive them myself, and shall not set 
him at liberty until he has paid the sum.' 

"The unfortunate man was still in chains when Lord Ex- 
mouth made the treaty of peaee, but of course could not 
demand his release, not being a Christian. 

"To this brief and sickening account of that horrid den, 
I would just say, what Lord Exmouth left undone in entirely 
destroying that abominable hell, which he certainly should 
have done, the French accomplished in 1830." 

Lord Exmouth doubtless went as far as his instructions 
from his government required, and whieh has been named 
in the treaty. But even after he had obtained the slaves, 
and the rausom money back, should the Dey have been 
compelled to pay a remuneration to these unfortunate men 
to their years of servitude and suffering? This demand 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 175 

should have been made and enforced too. And after the 
treaty had been signed by that inhuman monster, Omar 
Pashaw, and all the business apparently adjusted, and all 
the ships had left the bay, still there was the same perfid- 
ious wretch upon the throne, whose evident intention it was, 
after he had collected another fleet, to make reprisals on any 
merchantmen he could find, whose governments did not pos- 
sess the means of resistance by a strong naval force. 

Had Lord Exmouth completely annihilated the place, so 
far from having any imputation of injustice cast at him, 
he would have received plaudits of approbation from every 
Christian nation on earth. But this, with the taking of the 
Malakoff and Redan, were reserved for the French. 

The account of the bombardment of Algiers by Lord Ex- 
mouth, which has just been given, was written (by permission 
of the Admiralty,) by an Arab, who was engaged by the 
British government as an interpreter for the squadron, dur- 
ing the expedition. His account is very correct and minute. 
I had frequent opportunities during my stay in the Mediter- 
ranean, of conversing with those who were well acquainted 
with all the particulars of the battle. But there is one item 
in the Arab's narrative which I do not wholly aoree to, which 
was the great destruction done to the batteries. 

We were there only a f^v days after Lord Exmouth had 
gone, and with our glasses could see but very little altera- 
tion in anything bordering on the water, although there was 
no sort of doubt that the destruction in the city was im- 
mense. It was with much difficulty that I obtained the ac- 
count of the bombardment in its detailed form. I made 
several enquiries for it while in England, and finally ob- 
tained it from a library in Liverpool. 

It is very mysterious, that, during the conversation 
with the Dey, particularly on matters of the treaty, and 
also of the slaves, that no mention was made of the 
United States, who, but a few months before, had forced the 
Dey into a treaty, which placed the American Consul on a 
more favorable footing than that of any other consul at the 
Algerine court, independent of the elements of the treatv, 



176 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

which also were more favorable than those of any other 
nation. 

Whether this was carefully concealed by the Dey, or by the 
English officers, I am unable to say. But there is one thing 
very certain, and it cannot be denied, that the very favorable 
treaty made between Omar Pashaw and the government of 
the United States, and under such circumstances too : — three 
frigates, tioo sloops-of-ivar, two little giui brigs, and two schooners, 
were a terror to the Dey, for the safety of his fleet — 
a frigate and a brig having within a few days been cap- 
tured by Commodore Decatur, while in search of his other 
ships, before he appeared off Algiers. 

When, notwithstanding the fear manifested by the Dey 
for the safety of his six frigates, who were out on a cruise, 
six Dutch frigates, and two or three smaller vessels had 
been cruising before Algiers for two years, and had never 
dared to approach within gunshot of the batteries ; yet for 
these the Dey felt no alarm, the Dutchmen always taking 
good care to keep out of the way of the Algerine frigates. 

Again, by the treaty with the United States, the ammuni- 
tion tribute was stopped, and the United States Consul was 
permitted to be seated while in conference with the Dey, a 
privilege denied all others. All these things were hard to 
be " swallowed " by the English Consul, who remonstrated 
with the Dey on the unfairness of not placing the represen- 
tatives of his Majesty's government on as favorable a footing 
as that of the United States. To all of which the Dey 
turned a deaf ear ; and it was certain that Lord Exmouth's 
visit to Algiers, only a few months previous to the bombard- 
ment, was for the purpose of exhibiting his fleet before the 
castle, to try if it would have some effect in inducing the 
Dey to accede to the consul's demand. His fleet then con- 
sisted of his, the flag-ship, Boyne 98, and five other line-of- 
battle ships, which were all lying with us at Port Mahon ; 
and, as it has already been stated, the English officers of 
the Boyne had the temerity to take the responsibility of 
showing disrespect to the officers of the palace which led to 
the issue already narrated. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 177 



DESTRUCTION OF ALGIERS BY THE FRENCH. 

After the European peace of 1815, M. Duval was named 
Consul-General at Algiers. He was born in the East, and 
understood the Oriental languages, and the manners and 
customs of the inhabitants; but "his policy was marked by 
great weakness, and he inspired none with confidence or re- 
spect. He consented, without making any objections, that 
the annual tribute paid by the African Company, established 
by treaty for the purposes .of trade, should be raised from 
,£24,000 to X80,000 — and he also agreed that France should 
raise no forts or batteries around her factories, a privilege 
she had always reserved in her ancient treaties. 

Hussein Dey succeeded to the government in 1819, and 
was so emboldened by the repeated concessions of the French 
Consul-General, that he openly announced his intention, 
when a favorable opportunity occurred, of abolishing the Af- 
rican Company, and destroying its establishments. °His con- 
duct soon brought about a very hostile feeling n the part of 
the French government towards his own, which was much 
increased by a dispute relative to a debt due from France to 
the house of Bacri aud Busnach, of Algiers, which house was 
itself a debtor to the government of the Eegencv. The final 
rupture however, took place in 1827, when the" Consul-Gen- 
eral went to congratulate the Dey on the eve of the Bayram. 
A discussion having arisen, Hussein struck the consul with 
his fan. The news of tins outrage was received with the 
greatest indignation in Paris, and on the fifth of June, 
1827, the Moniteur announced that a squadron had sailed 
from Toulon to demand satisfaction for the insult offered 
to the Eepresentative of France. This squadron was com- 
posed of a ship-of-the-line, five frigates, two brigs, and some 
smaller craft, in all thirteen sail. On the arrival of this 
force, the consul and all French subjects embarked, and 
through the medium of the Sardinian Consul-General, the 
following demand was made by the commodore. 

1. The chief officers of the Regency, with the exception of 
L 



178 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the Dey, will proceed on board the flag-ship, and make apolo- 
gies for that Prince to the French Consul. 

2. At a given signal, the French flag will be hoisted at 
the Casbah, and at the surrounding forts, and saluted with 
one hundred and one guns. 

o. The property of French subjects embarked on board an 
enemy's ship, is not to be seized. 

4. No vessels hoisting the French flag, are to be visited 
by the Algerine Corsairs. 

5. The Dey, by a special treaty, will execute, as far as his 
dominions are concerned, all conventions concluded between 
France and the Sublime Porte. * 

6. The subjects of the following States are to be treated 
as French, viz : — Tuscany, Lucca, and the Papal States. 

The Dey would not listen to these terms, and in his answer 
alluded to various violations of treaty on the part of France. 
A blockade then commenced, and the squadron was reinforc- 
ed by three vessels of the line, and an Admiral appointed to 
the command. This state of things lasted till July, 1829, 
when an incident occurred which sealed the conquest of the 
Regency. 

The " Provence" ship of the line, and the brig " Alerte," 
hoisted signals demanding a parley, and anchored in the har- 
bor of Algiers. The Admiral, accompanied by his secretary, 
an interpreter, some officers, and a guard of honor went on 
shore and made arrangements with the Minister of marine 
and foreign affairs, for being presented to the Dey the follow- 
ing morning. Two interviews took place, and no satisfactory 
arrangements were concluded. In a few davs thev embarked, 
and sailed out of the harbor, (the flags denoting a parley still 
flying, consequently forbidding a resumption of hostilities) 
during which time they were repeatedly fired at by the town 
and fort batteries. This event decided the French govern- 
ment to more energetic measures than had hithorto been 
adopted, and Charles X., at this time becoming from day to 
day more unstable on his throne, welcomed heartily this un- 
settled Btate of Algerine affairs, and desired through that 
channel, to turn the minds of his people from political ques- 
tions at home, to schemes of conquest abroad. The mass 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 179 

of the nation however, doubted the policy of the expedition ; 
with the army alone it was popular. 

Early in the year 1830, the principal dock-yards of France 
equipped eleven sail of the line, twenty-four frigates, seven 
corvettes, twenty-seven brigs, seven steamers ; in all about 
one hundred sail, which fleet was destined to carry over 
37,000 men to the shores of Africa, besides which, many mer- 
chant ships were chartered to carry over military stores. 
The army was commanded by General de Bourmont, and the 
fleet by Admiral Buperre. The troops disembarked at Sidi 
Feruch, about thirteen miles west of Algiers, and after a 
hard fought battle at Strucli, and the capture of the forts 
around the town, Algiers unconditionally surrendered. Thu- 
terminated the reign of Hussein, and the Turkish dominas 
tion in Algeria. A war of nearly twenty year's duration, 
has left France almost the undisputed master of the country ; 
for since the surrender of Abd-el-Kader, the war against 
the natives lias been confined to small expeditions for the 
punishment of a few refractory tribes. 

That extraordinary chief who surrendered himself to France 
in 1847, was born in an encampment near Mascara, in the 
year 180G. His father took him to Mecca at the early age 
of eight, and showing great quickness of perception during 
his youth, much pains were bestowed on his education. 
Mohhy-ed Din, his father, it appears, conceived the possibil- 
ity of establishing an Arabian dynasty in Algeria, and such 
ideas were instilled into the mind of the vouno- Abd-el-Ka- 
der. Their discourses however, on this subject, acquired too 
much publicity, and awakened the suspicions of tiie Bey of 
Oran, who arrested both father and son ; bat they were soon 
set at liberty on condition of quitting the country. They 
returned to Mecca, proceeded by land to Tunis, and from 
thence by sea to Alexandria. From Mecca they visited Bag- 
dad, and in 1828 they returned home, to which step no oppo- 
sition was made. 

They apparently renounced politics, leading a most aus- 
tere and moral life, and gaining the respect of all. The 
state of anarchy amongst the Arabs, which followed the con- 
quest of Algiers, afforded an opportunity for the gratifica- 



180 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

tion of Abd-el Kader's ambition; he rallied around him 
the tribes of his immediate neighborhood, placed himself at 
their head, and excited them by his poems, in the name of the 
Prophet, to resist the invaders; he was stimulated in his 
efforts by promises of aid from the Emperor of Morocco." 

" His descent from Mahomet, and a pretended vision, in 
which he represented himself as sitting on a splendid throne, 
giving judgment amongst the Arabs, tended in no small de- 
gree to strengthen his influence. At length, having collected 
considerable forces, he attacked the garrison of Oran, and 
for some time compelled the French to remain within their 
defences. Treaties of peace were at different times, con- 
cluded with him ; but the restlessness of the Arabs, and the 
encroaching spirit of the French, soon caused them to be 
broken ; places which, after the dissolution of the govern- 
ment of the Regency, acquired an independence of their 
own under the authority of the Emir, fell one by one, into 
the hands of the French ; such was the case with Tlemcen, 
Mascara, Mostaganem, and some others. 

" He was at last considerably harassed, and was continually 
obliged to take refuge in the desert — he was accompanied 
by a numerous force of cavalry, and inflicted great loss on 
the French, by appearing where he was least expected, and 
cutting off supplies. He continued, however, to harass the 
French till the end of 1847, when, finding his resources 
entirely exhausted, he offered to surrender himself to Gen- 
eral de Samoriciere, on condition of being allowed to reside 
at Mecca, or Alexandria. Abd-el-Kader performed his part 
of the contract, but the French government detained this 
brave man a close prisoner till 1852, when he was released 
by the Prince, President of the Republic, and Broussa was 
agreed upon as his future residence. 

" Since his surrender, no opposition of any importance has 
been made to the French, and their territory may now be 
defined as composed of the four ancient provinces of the 
Regency — Algiers, Tituri, Constantine, and Oran ; that of 
Tituri has now been united to Algiers." (Broussa was de- 
stroyed by an eartlxjuake, while I was in Turkey. Abd-el Ka- 
der just escaped with his life, besides wasting nearly all his 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 181 

property. The French Emperor gave him permission to reside 
in Beyroot, in Syria, until a future residence should be fixed 
upon. He arrived at Beyroot some weeks previous to my leav- 
i)iy that place for Alexandria.') 

I hope I shall not fatigue the reader by dwelling so long 
on Algiers, but having been so many times there, and wit- 
nessed the cruelties of the Algerines, and then too, when we 
consider the incredible number of captives that have pined 
away in miserable bondage among these wretches, probably 
during a space of five hundred years. And, who knows, 
how many missing vessels that have been given up as foun- 
dered, or otherwise destroyed at sea, have been taken by 
Algerine Corsairs, and their crews sent into the country 
heavily chained, and slaves for life ! Lasting honors are 
due to the French, for the final destruction of this once 
abominable place. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Sentence of court-martial carried into effect at Algiers, — Visited by 
Algerine officials, — Sail from Algiers, — Cruise on the Barbarv Coast, — 
Death of Lieut. Elliot, — Return to Mahon, — Christmas at Mahon, — 
Double allowance of grog, — Fighting, — Remarkable English boxer, — 
Trouble on the berth deck, — Careless accident, — Narrow escape, — Or- 
ders to prepare for home, — Ship ready, — Good men taken out, — Con- 
victs and hospital rangers in their stead, — Leave Port Mahon for Mala- 
ga, — Sail for Gibraltar and Cadiz, — Sail from Cadiz for Annapolis, — First 
part of the passage pleasant,— Latter part continued gales, — Poor crew,— 
Arrive on the coast, — Fall in with wrecks, — Make Cape Henry, — Take a 
Pilot, — Get lost, — Go back to Cape Henry, — Take a new departure. — 
Arrive at Annapolis, — Came near killing a nigger, — Was very sorry, — 
Made it all up with him, — Sailed for Norfolk, and for New York, — Ar- 
rive at the Navy Yard, — Villanous Landlords, — Foolish sailors, — De- 
prived of their money, — Ludicrous scene on the birth deck, — Cruelty 
to Tom Smith, — Sailors in jail for debt, — Scheme of a midshipman to 
obtain leave of absence, — Obtain leave of absence, — Return to Boston, — 
Receive orders to join my ship again, — Not liking her destination apply 
for orders to Charlestown, — Wishes complied with, — Dissatisfied, — Ob- 
tain a furlough for a voyage to India, — Join my ship, and prepare for 
the voyage, — Missionary passengers, — Sail for Bombay, — Man over- 
board, — Was saved — Turned out to be a great rascal, — Commence calk- 
ing the deck, — Ship rotten, — Repair her, — Trouble with the Mis- 
sionaries, — Villany of the captain, — Cruel treatment of a female passen- 
ger, — Make Ceylon, — Natives come off to the ship, — Pleasant sailing 
up the coast of Malabar, — Visit of the natives, — Speak a ship with 
dogs. 

While our fleet were at Algiers, the sentence of a court- 
martial was carried into effect upon a man who was convicted 
of cowardice and desertion, and exciting others to follow his 
example. The following are the particulars of the charges, 
and of the transactions : 

It appeared that while the Washington, 74, was lying at 
Marseilles, that she took iire in the hold from the accidental 
dropping of a candle from a lantern. The alarm spread 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 183 

through the ship that she was on fire below ! It also ap- 
peared in evidence, that upon the alarm spreading among the 
seamen,, and when the firemen were called, that this man 
sprung forward upon the forecastle, singing out, " now is your 
time boys, get ashore before she blows up," and jumped over- 
board, but was caught before he reached the shore. This 
was the ground of the charges against him. The court ad- 
judged the following sentence, viz : that he should receive a 
certain number of lashes at the gangway of the Washington; 
and be shown through the fleet, in a suitable boat, in which 
there should be erected a gallows ; with a halter around 
his neck and a white cap on his head, on which should appear, 
in large letters, the word Coward. According to sentence 
he was carried along-side each ship, the crews of which had 
previously been called to witness punishment. After this he 
was turned out of the ship, and sent on board the Constella- 
tion Frigate. I saw this young man several times afterwards, 
and he appeared to be a very clever fellow, having had no bad 
intentions, but was evidently frightened. 

We left Algiers and sailed for Mahon. and after fixing up 
a little, sailed again on a cruise, first visiting Algiers. This 
time we ran in very close to the batteries, and being a single 
ship, of course the Dey could not be afraid of us. Our con- 
sul came off, attended by several Algerine officials who had 
expressed a wish to see the inside of an American ship-of-war. 
We were very politely treated, and our consul had also been 
well treated since we were there last. We found it necces- 
sary to vist these chaps pretty often, well knowing their per- 
fidious and treacherous character. 

During this cruise, we were called to mourn the loss and per- 
form the last duties towards a worthy and meritorious officer, 
Lieutenant William Elliot. He was sick but a few days, and 
left us for another and I hope, a better world, and with ap- 
propriate ceremony we committed his body to the deep. 

Perhaps the reader may never have witnessed a burial at 
sea, and as I have alway looked upon it as solemn and im- 
pressive. The ceremony differs somewhat between that of a 
merchant ship, and a man-of-war. On board the former the 
ceremony is quite simple, seldom having any formality, but 



184 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

in all cases the body is properly sewed up in canvas, and a 
sufficient weight attached to sink it. When a death occurs 
on board a man-of-war, the body is brought from the sick bay 
and laid in some convenient place on the after-part of the 
gun deck, and over which is placed the national flag. At 
nine o'clock the boatswain and his mates pipe all hands to bury 
the dead. A broad plank which is usually kept for the pur- 
pose, is brought to the lee gangway ; one end resting on the 
gunwale, the other raised upon a shot box. The body having 
been previously sewed up in his hammock by the sail-maker, 
and three or four shot sewed in at the feet, is brought up and 
laid upon the plank, with the feet towards the water. The 
burial service is now commenced by the Parson, who reads 
the service at sea All heads are uncovered, and every officer 
and man are at the burial, and the most solemn stillness pre- 
vails, and when he comes to the part, " We commit his body 
to the deep," the inner end of the plank is lifted sufficiently 
high to let the body slide off, when the solemn plunge echoes 
back, gone, to be seen no more until the sea is commanded 
to yield up its dead. 

While sailing over the Mediterranean one cannot but be im- 
pressed with the fact that he is passing over buried nations, 
millions on millions, whose bones now lie at the bottom prob- 
ably in a state of complete preservation. Antediluvian bodies, 
that at the receding of the waters were washed into the Medi- 
terranean, Sidonians, Tyrians, Phcenecian, Roman fleets, be- 
sides the myriads of modern nations that have perished here. 
And who knows but it is owing to the decomposition of such 
a vast amount of animal matter, that this sea exhibits that 
luminous phosphorescent appearance at night. 

After finishing our cruise on the Barbary Coast we returned 
to Mahon. Winter had now commenced, and we were or- 
dered to fit the ship for home, to be ready to sail early in the 
Spring. We spent our Christmas in Mahon, which is always 
an exciting time on board a man-of-war. According to the 
old custom, a double allowance of grog was served out, and 
also according to custom the day given to the men as a holy- 
day. Man-of-wars men generally on these occasions save a 
great portion of their grog until evening, when they calcu- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 185 

late to have a good time. About sundown however, Mr. whis- 
key began to get rather noisy, and somewhat quarrelsome 
withal. While we lay at Barcelona a few months before, 
there came off to the ship a short, chunky, good looking fel- 
low, representing himself as a shipwrecked sailor, who had 
travelled all the way from Malaga to Barcelona, he wish- 
ed to ship with us, and was accordingly shipped. He 
had no clothes except what he stood in ; and upon his head 
an old Scotch cap. He gave his name as John Williams. For 
some time after he came on board, he appeared much reserved, 
wishing to avoid everybody, and would sit for hours on a shot 
box with his arms folded, as though involved in deep thought. 
He was a firstrate sailor, and in a few weeks gradually be- 
came more familiar ; still there appeared something very 
mysterious about him. which gave room for much conjecture 
among those who noticed him. On the Christmas day which 
I have just alluded to, he appeared more cheerful than usual, 
but kept perfectly sober, or rather, he showed no appearance 
of having drank more than his allowance. Soon after the 
hammocks were piped down, I noticed a fight just under the 
top-gallant forecastle; I went forward, and found it was Wil- 
liams, engaged with one of the forecastle men, who was much 
heavier than himself, and the way he put the licks into this 
big fellow was a caution to all boxers. The latter, though he 
had drank enough to make him quarrelsome, yet, was by no 
means drunk. Williams, by a well directed blow between 
the eyes, would drop him as fast as he could get up, and 
when he was down, the other would lift up both hands, saying, 
u 1 am clear of you" meaning, I don't strike you while 
down. And when he had given this man enough, declared 
himself ready for another. At this stage of the proceedings 
I went below to my room, which was right under the battle 
ground. But had hardly got seated before I heard a shuf- 
fling on deck, which I knew was another fight. I just step- 
ped up, and sure enough, Williams was at it again with a fel- 
low as large as the other, whom he also handsomely flogged. 
The effect of the whiskey by this time was manifest 
throughout the berth deck. Half-drunken songs, fighting, 
yelling ; the master mate of the berth deck, singing out for 



186 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the master-at-arms, to put some crazy fellows in irons ; but 
this functionary was drunk too. "You, Tom Wilson, if you 
don't make less noise there, I'll ram a grape-shot down your 
throat." "Ship's corporal, put out those lights there immedi- 
ately." " The ship's corporal is gone ashore, sir, in an iron 
pot," 

Right along-side of my room was an old fellow, that had a 
favorite song which he sung only when about two-thirds 
sprung. The chorus of which was : 

" What can't be cu — red, 
Must be enclu — red." 

And I have often thought of, and had to apply this drunken 
chorus many times during my pilgrimage. 

At about eleven o'clock, I turned in, but had not been in 
my bed half an hour when my messmate, the gunner, came 
down. 

" Well," said he, " Williams has flogged every man on the 
forecastle, and he is not used up yet." 

Next morning at daylight, when all hands were called, and 
the hammocks piped up, there was a rich subject for a pain- 
ter, more than half were too drunk the night before to hang 
their hammocks up ; they had strewed themselves all about the 
deck, vomiting, &c, where they lie, and many of them yet 
too drunk to find their hammocks, and the master's mate flying 
round among them with a rattan. The officer of the deck 
repeatedly singing out. " Mr. Stevens, hurry up those ham- 
mocks, sir." " Boatswain's mate, go down there, sir, and 
start those fellows up." So the whole day after Christmas 
was one of wild confusion. 

The Winter passed off pleasantly, although one incident 
occurred which came very near causing much distress, and 
probably of fatal results among the inhabitants. The frigate 
United States, was getting ready for painting, and the gun- 
ner had been ordered to draw the shot from the guns, as it 
was the commodore's intention to discharge them. But 
through the neglect, or carelessness of the quarter gunner, 
who had charge of the main deck divisions, a shot was left in 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 189 

us, we had all these difficulties, besides many more to contend 
with. When the bad weather commenced, many of these 
miserable fellows shammed sick. And in a very short time 
nearly half the berth deck was filled with those who were up- 
on the doctor's list, and it was with much difficulty that able 
men could be found sufficient for reefing the fore and main-top 
sails at once. Had it not been for the extra energy and 
watchfulness of the old Ontario's, both of officers and men, I 
am not able to say what would have been our fate. After 
having been out thirty days, our provisions began to give out 
and we were put on a short allowance of water ; and still 
nothing but hard gales. At length we reached the Western 
edge of the gulf, having been for a few days favored with a 
warm, south-east wind and much rain. Suddenly it shifted 
round into the old corner again, and whistled away with ven- 
geance. We soon got among the <b lame ducks." The first 
we fell in with was a sloop forty days from Newbern, N. C, 
bound to New York, and in a star vino; condition. It was in 
the night, blowing very heavy, and very dark. She had been 
thrown on her beam ends, but was now partially righted. — 
The crew did not wish to be taken off, but only to be sup- 
plied with provisions. This we succeeded in doing, although 
it very much reduced our scanty supply. We next fell in 
with a vessel bottom up, but saw nothing of the crew. And 
on the thirty-fifth day we made Cape Henry, ran in and took 
a pilot Soon after the pilot had come on board, it came up 
quite thick, we kept along however all that day and the fol- 
lowing night, under the sweet expectation of soon having 
something to eat. But in this we were disappointed. Early 
on the morning of the second day, the pilot seemed to be in 
much perplexity, running from side to side, enquiring the 
soundings, as we had kept the lead agoing on both sides. 
All at once he says to the officer of the deck : 

" We must tack ship, sir; w T e are out of the channel, and I 
don't know which side of us it is. It has been so thick that 
I have not been able to see anything, to tell me where I am." 

So we tacked and went all the way back to Cape Henry, 
and took a fresh departure, which kept us starving three days 
longer. At last we arrived at Annapolis, and had scarcely 



186 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the master-at-arms, to put some crazy fellows in irons ; but 
this functionary was drunk too. "You, Tom Wilson, if you 
don't make less noise there, I'll ram a grape-shot down your 
throat." "Ship's corporal, put out those lights there immedi- 
ately." " The ship's corporal is gone ashore, sir, in an iron 
pot," 

Right along-side of my room was an old fellow, that had a 
favorite song which he sung only when about two-thirds 
sprung. The chorus of which was : 

" What can't be cu — red, 
Must be endu — red." 

And I have often thought of, and had to apply this drunken 
chorus many times during my pilgrimage. 

At about eleven o'clock, I turned in, but had not been in 
my bed half an hour when my messmate, the gunner, came 
down. 

" Well," said he, " Williams has flogged every man on the 
forecastle, and he is not used up yet." 

Next morning at daylight, when all hands were called, and 
the hammocks piped up, there was a rich subject for a pain- 
ter, more than half were too drunk the night before to hang 
their hammocks up ; they had strewed themselves all about the 
deck, vomiting, &c, where they lie, and many of them yet 
too drunk to find their hammocks, and the master's mate flying 
round among them with a rattan. The officer of the deck 
repeatedly singing out, " Mr. Stevens, hurry up those ham- 
mocks, sir." " Boatswain's mate, go down there, sir, and 
start those fellows up." So the whole day after Christmas 
was one of wild confusion. 

The Winter passed off pleasantly, although one incident 
occurred which came very near causing much distress, and 
probably of fatal results among the inhabitants. The frigate 
United States, was getting ready for painting, and the gun- 
ner had been ordered to draw the shot from the guns, as it 
A\as the commodore's intention to discharge them. But 
through the neglect, or carelessness of the quarter gunner, 
who had charge of the main deck divisions, a shot was left in 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 189 

us, we had all these difficulties, besides many more to contend 
with. When the bad weather commenced, many of these 
miserable fellows shammed sick. And in a very short time 
nearly half the berth deck was filled with those who were up- 
on the doctor's list, and it was with much difficulty that able 
men could be found sufficient for reefing the fore and main-top 
sails at once. Had it not been for the extra energy and 
watchfulness of the old Ontario's, both of officers and men, I 
am not able to say what would have been our fate. After 
having been out thirty days, our provisions began to give out 
and we were put on a short allowance of water ; and still 
nothing but hard gales. At length we reached the Western 
edge of the gulf, having been for a few days favored with a 
warm, south-east wind and much rain. Suddenly it shifted 
round into the old corner again, and whistled away with ven- 
geance. We soon got among the '■ lame ducks." The first 
we fell in with was a sloop forty days from Newbern, N. C, 
bound to New York, and in a starving condition. It was in 
the night, blowing very heavy, and very dark. She had been 
thrown on her beam ends, but was now partially righted. — 
The crew did not wish to be taken off, but only to be sup- 
plied with provisions. This we succeeded in doing, although 
it very much reduced our scanty supply. We next fell in 
with a vessel bottom up, but saw nothing of the crew. And 
on the thirty-fifth day we made Cape Henry, ran in and took 
a pilot. Soon after the pilot had come on board, it came up 
quite thick, we kept along however all that day and the fol- 
lowing night, under the sweet expectation of soon having 
something to eat. But in this we were disappointed. Early 
on the morning of the second day, the pilot seemed to be in 
much perplexity, running from side to side, enquiring the 
soundings, as we had kept the lead agoing on both sides. 
All at once he says to the officer of the deck : 

"We must tack ship, sir ; w T e are out of the channel, and I 
don't know which side of us it is. It has been so thick that 
I have not been able to see anything, to tell me where I am." 

So we tacked and went all the way back to Cape Henry, 
and took a fresh departure, which kept us starving three days 
longer. At last we arrived at Annapolis, and had scarcely 



190 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

let our anchor go, when the wind shifted into the N. W., and 
blew a hurricane. So of course no boats could come off to 
us at present. Towards night it lulled so that a boat load 
of oysters came to our relief, which were quickly bought up 
and devoured. 

Early on the next morning, the fresh beef and vegetables 
came off, which was immediately served out. Our fuel had 
been used up some days before our arrival, and none had 
yet been sent from the shore. But I was determined on 
having a beef steak ; so I sawed up a boat oar, and sent my 
boy to the galley to cook the steak. I went below to my 
room, and began to sharpen up my teeth, and get my mouth 
in good shape, for a breakfast, which I had not had for a 
fortnight. Directly, the boy came down, and told me that 
black Williams, the captain's cook, had driven him away 
from the galley, it being jammed full of cooks. I sprung up, 
and in an instant was among them, and caught up a piece 
of the oar, about ten feet long, and "dropped the nigger." 
He soon picked himself up again. I saw that the wool be- 
gan to grow red, and I began to grow sorry. I told Sam to 
cook his steak, which he did ; or rather warmed it through, 
and I ate it like a cannibal. I now began to repent of my 
rashness, went to the poor fellow, and told him that I was 
sorry, that I was in a great passion, driven to it by hun- 
ger. 

" 0, never mind, sir ; 1 hiotued you dioVnt mean nothing, I 
only got a little bumjj on my head." 

And sure enough, there was a lump on one side of his co- 
coanut, as big as my fist. So I made the matter up with him 
in good shape, and in material form, and thought after all 
that I was the worst nijnyer of the two. I met him in Bos- 
ton, seven years after the affair, when we had a good laugh 
over the beef steak, and the knock down. 

From Annapolis, we came to Hampton-roads ; and from 
thence to New York, where we arrived on the 27th of May, 
1817. 

Scarcely had our anchor ov>ne from the bow, before the 
ship was surrounded by land sharks and bail women ; the 
latter, however, were not permitted to come on board ; and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 191 

only a few of the former. They obtained permission only 
by urgently desiring to see some particular friend. As none 
of the crew were allowed to go on shore, the landlords went 
off, but soon returned with any quantity of good things, 
such as pies, puddings, roast beef, chickens, and had also 
contrived to smuggle on board an ample supply of good 
stuff, to wash down the savory viands, notwithstanding, 
they were strictly forbidden against bringing any intoxica- 
ting liquor on board, the master at arms was placed in the 
gangway, with orders to search everything, and everybody, 
and "the Maine liquor leuw in full force," there were bot- 
tles of brandy, gin, rum, and wine enough to supply a 
regular bachanalian feast. Tailors and watch venders came 
along-side ; and all, knowing that the boys had between 
three and four hundred dollars a piece, coming to them ; were 
very willing to trust them with any amount. Nothing 
pleases this sort of sailors so much, as to show a willingness 
to trust them ; and what was very remarkable, nearly every 
one of those skulking lubbers, that had been in the sick bay 
during all the bad weather, and were so sick that they could 
not be turned over in their hammocks without a crowbar, 
were the most lively and vociferous among the whole crew ; 
and with the rest, were all blind drunk before morning. 
Many of these fellows had bought nice long-tailed coats, 
pantaloons, new hats, watches, and dandy boots ; and every- 
thing, to constitute a fine go-a-shore-rig ; for which, as it 
subsequently appeared, they were charged one hundred dol- 
lars, and some of them put on their new rig, to see how they 
would look. One fellow would try to haul a pair of dandy 
pantaloons over a thick pair of blanket drawers, and a 
great brawny leg, which would tear them, of course, and 
then off they go, and he must have another pair, which, with 
considerable trouble, and with the assistance of the tailor be 
managed to get on ; then his legs looked like well stuffed 
sausages. Another would try to get a narrow backed coat, 
over a pair of broad shoulders, when, away goes the back, 
and another twenty dollars out of the fool's pocket, and in 
this way these land pirates contrived to rob this crew. 

The next morning, these fellows who had tried on their 



192 AUTOBIOGR APIIY. 

toggery the night before, and who thought it was not worth 
while to take it off again, as they would in all probability go 
ashore next morning, exhibited a ludicrous appearance, 
their fine clothes were covered with vomit and sand from ly- 
ing on deck ; their new beavers jammed up into the shape of 
a cocked hat, and many quite sick from their night's debauch, 
and all over the birth deck, there were strewn the remains 
of puddings, half-gnawed chicken bones, broken bottles, and 
all kinds of filth. 

The ship hanled into the wharf, in the afternoon, and all 
whose times were out, were allowed to go where they chose. 
As the money for paying off the ship had not been provided, 
nearly all went ashore leaving only about a dozen, who had 
a few weeks longer to serve ; and among those was an old 
fellow named Tom Smith. A lieutenant ordered him to do 
something, and Smith being a little corned, refused, saying, 
11 my time is out." The lieutenant knocked him down, and 
then kicked him on the head ; and at one kick, the toe of 
his boot struck under his ear, tearing it from his head. I 
saw this noble act, and know the gentleman that performed 
it. Not a week after these fellows left the ship, 1 was pass- 
ing the jail, which then stood near the park, and heard 
some one call to me from the balcony. I looked up, and 
there were three of our bows in limbo for debt, and each of 
these were paid off, with nearly four hundred dollars. Such 
was the manner in which man-of-war sailors were plundered 
in those days, before saving banks, amd sailor's homes were 
instituted. 

I obtained leave of absence to visit my friends in Boston, 
and had not been home more than two weeks, when I re- 
ceived orders to join the ship again. On arriving at New 
York, I ascertained that the Ontario was to be fitted for a 
cruise to Columbia river ; and was to be commanded by 
Capt. Biddle. Capt. Downes having been ordered to the 
Independence, at Charlestown. 

Not willing to go the cruise, I applied for orders to an- 
other ship; and instead of which, was ordered to the navy 
yard, at Charlestown, and there to report myself to Com- 
modore Hull. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 193 

Before I left the Ontario for Boston, one of our midship- 
men had applied to the commader of the yard, for leave of 
absence, to visit his friends who resided in Charleston, S. C. 
The old gentleman gruffly answered : " No sir, your services 
are required in the yard." 

As the midshipman was passing down to his ship, venting 
his disappointment audibly, in rather unmeasured terms, he 

met Mr. P , first lieutenant of the yard, to whom lie 

told his trouble. 

" Ah ! '■ Said Mr. P , " you don't know how to ap- 
proach the commodore, I'll teach you how to do it, and if you 
follow my directions you will surely accomplish your purpose. 
Just wait a day or two, say — day after tomorrow morning; 
and then watch when he enters his office, and in a few 
minutes go in, make a very low bow, — Good morning Com- 
modore; how is your health this morning? you look charm- 
ingly ; I have never seen you look better in my life ! does 
your lady enjoy her usual health ? Then pop the question 
about your leave." 

Accordingly, P j, followed out the suggestion, and 

on the morning appointed, watched the old gentleman as he 
entered his office, and in a few minutes knocked at the door, 
and was admitted. He made a very handsome bow, and in 
the most polite manner, commenced : 

Good morning, Commodore ; how is your health this morn- 
ing, sir? I think I never saw you look so well in my life." 

C. Exceedingly well ; thank you sir. 

P. And your lady ? docs she enjoy her usual health? 

0. " Excellent, excellent. I am obliged to you, sir." 

P " Commodore, I should feel extremely grateful for a 
few days leave to visit my friends." 

C. Certainly, sir. How much time do you wish ? " 

P. " About three weeks, sir. 

C, "0 take six sir, with my best wishes. Will you dine 
with me to-day, sir, at 3 o'clock ? " 

P. Thank you, sir. I shall be happy to do myself the 
honor." 

So much for knowing how to approach a " great man." 
M 



194 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

According to my orders, I reported myself to Commodore 
Hull, for duty in the Navy Yard at Charlestown. Had 
not been here long, before I was convinced that it was no 
place for me ; everything was solitary and dismal. There 
were no public stores except those on the right as you enter 
the yard. No mechanic establishments, except a small black- 
smith's shop, and a boat shed. It appeared to me more like 
a graveyard, than a public naval depot. There were two 
or three master mechanics who had got on the right side of 
the commodore, and were feathering their nests out of Uncle 
Sam pretty successfully. 

There were many very singular transactions carried on 
during my stay here, to which I shall not refer at pres- 
ent. There were several officers attached to the yard, and 
about in the same order as on board a ship-of-the-line, viz : 
commodore, captain, senior and junior lieutenants, sailing 
master, midshipmen, master's mates and warrant officers, 
such as gunner, boatswain, carpenter and sail-maker. My 
hanging-up place was on board the Java frigate. 

Commodore Hull was an excellent seaman, and as all 
the world knows, a brave naval officer ; yet he was evi- 
dently lacking in one point, and that was, a proper respect 
for his officers. The three years that I had then spent in 
the navy, were sufficient to show me conclusively, that a 
naval officer, no matter what his rank may be, must keep 
within his sphere ; to go out of it, he degrades himself; and 
in no condition of life is a strict observance of rank more 
indispensably necessary than on board a man-of-war. Cour- 
tesy and good breeding demand a return of politeness even 
toward a slave ; remembering at the same time, that famil- 
iarity begets contempt. 

I noticed very soon after I had joined the yard, the boat- 
swain and gunner with one of the master's mates, were often 
busy about the commodore's house, and frequently about the 
kitchen ; and at one time I saw the boatswain go over to 
Boston with a wheelbarrow, and bring home the commodore's 
marketing, which was derogatory to their rank. 

I had received orders to take the carpenters who were at- 
tached to the yard, and have all the boats repaired, and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 105 

painted. I always appeared during the day in the uniform 
appointed for a warrant officer, and several times when pass- 
ing the commodore, noticed that he looked rather closely 
at me, the meaning of which I well understood, from several 
hints which I had received from the boatswain- There was 
another officer attached to the yard, as a supernumerary — 
the gunner of the Java, who was a tine fellow, and much of a 
gentleman. The commodore had hinted to him several times 
that he must go to work, without ordering him to do it, how- 
ever. He knew his place, and positively refused to touch 
his hand to anything ; but was ready and willing to super- 
intend or direct any work in his department which the com- 
modore might place him over. 

I was told that I was not one of the old marts disciples, 
and this I well knew before. So 1 was determined to leavo 
the yard, at any rate. Not far from the Navy Yard there 
was a fine looking ship fitting out for India. I went along- 
side of her and was introduced to the captain, and asked 
him if he had engaged his carpenter. He replied that he had 
not, but was looking for one. I told him who and what I 
was, and that if I could get a furlough in season, would like 
to go the voyage with him. He seemed much pleased, and 
wished me to go about the furlough as quick as possible, as 
he would sail in four days. I knew that four days were not 
sufficient to get an answer from the Secretary of the Navy ; 
made the matter known to Mr. Macomber, first lieutenant 
of the yard, who was a very austere man, but quite friendly 
toward me ; always manifesting the greatest kindness. He 
told me that Mr. Crowninshield was not at Washington, but 
at his residence in Salem ; that it was very doubtful 
whether he would attend to any official business, while ab- 
sent from the seat of government. " But," he continued, 
" notwithstanding I am sorry to have you leave the yard, you 
have my permission to go to Salem, and see what you can do 
with the Secretary." As there were no railroads then, a 
journey to Salem and back used nearly a whole day. 

I started off immediately, and found Mr. Crowninshield 
at home. Told him my errand, and the reason I had called 
upon him. After making some few enquiries, he gave me 



196 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the furlough, at the same time wishing- me a pleasant voy- 
age. On my return to Boston, I notified the captain of the 
merchant ship, that I was all right, and would be on board 
ready for duty on the next day. My next business was to 
acquaint Commodore Hull about the furlough and the India 
voyage, and when I first named it to him, he was quite as- 
tonished at my not having first applied to him. Of course 
I knew better than to have done that. He seemed to regret 
my leavino the yard. I told him it was too inactive a life 
for me, and preferred a voyage to India, rather than the. 
navy yard. 

Next morning I went on board my new ship, and reported 
myself to the chief mate, ready to select the lumber and 
other stores required in the carpenter's department for tli3 
voyage. The captain directed me to go to the ship yard, 
and get what I wanted. Accordingly, with these unlimited 
orders, and not knowing what might happen, I selected 
six large white oak plank three inches thick, also some 
short pieces of various thicknesses, and six three inch deck 
plank, and four very wide two inch pine plank, with some 
pine and oak boards — besides some small pieces of oak stuff, 
which I threw into the cart. I took four bundles of oakum 
(200 pounds), a large pitch pot, a barrel of pitch, and one of 
tar, and a large lot of bolts, assorted spikes, nails, augers, 
and a good grindstone ; when all this stuff was drop- 
ped along-side the ship, the mate swore that I was either 
crazv, or else had an idea that I was fitting out a line-of-bat- 
tie-ship. To take all that stuff on board was out of the 
question — but after a great deal of talking, it was taken on 
board and stowed away very snugly on each side of the long 
boat ; and I must say, that when I saw what a pile it made 
along-side, I began to think I had overstrained the matter. 
But never mind, it is all on board now — it may come in plat- 
an d it may not. 

Our ship was bound to Bombay, and perhaps to Calcutta. 
There were five Missionary passengers who were going to 
Bombay, Mr. and Mrs. Nickols, Mr. and Mrs. Graves, and a 
young lady, (Miss Philomela Thurston) who was to become 
the wife of Bev. Mr. Newell, husband of the late, and cele- 



AUTO BIOGR APE Y. 197 

brated Harriet Newell. A large collection of stores and 
comforts had been provided for the Missionaries by their 
friends in Boston, and put on board the ship, and marked 
Missionary stores. As the ship was to sail on Sunday morn- 
ing, I went on board on Saturday evening, Oct. 3, 1817, and 
on the morrow, as soon as the crew could be got on board, 
we weighed anchor and started. For the first two or three 
days, our passengers were quite sick ; the captain was very 
attentive to them but especially to Miss Thurston. He hung 
on to her with all the tenderness of a father. As soon as 
we were well off the coast, the captain wished me to com- 
mence calking the deck, as on account of so much bad 
weather, while lying at Charlestown, it could not have been 
done there. I soon discovered that the deck was rotten, and 
as fast as I found a rotten plank, took it out, and replaced it 
with a new one. Before I had reached the windlass, a 
large portion of my deck plank were used up. I just gave 
the mate a hint about his reluctance to take them on board. 
The deck was now finished as far forward as the fore hatch- 
way. From what indications I saw forward round the bows, 
thought there might be some rot there, so I took an auger 
and bored into several places, and sure enough, the whole 
bow on both sides, was entirely rotten. I began now to set 
my wits to work for some plan to repair the ship ; but be- 
fore commencing, to be sure that we had all the materials 
necessary for su'ch an undertaking, as both bows were to be 
ripped down to below the deck and as far aft as the after- 
part of the fore rigging — and on overhauling my stock in 
trade, I found I had just about enough of everything, and if 
we lacked anything it would be spikes. The captain was very 
much alarmed about it, and at first was afraid he would have 
to return and repair the ship. 

I should before have related, that when three days out, 
we took a strong south-east gale, attended with a heavy 
sea. At 4 o'clock, P. M., I went into the cabin to secure 
the dead-lights, and had hardly commenced lashing the 
first one, when I heard an unusual rustling on deck, and 
it immediately occurred to me that a man was overboard. 
I jumped on deck in a moment, and saw it was what I 



198 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

supposed. Very near the companion-way, lay a large hood, 
or cover for a skylight. 1 caught hold of it, and it being 
very heavy, said to a man near by, " take hold here John," 
which he did, and we threw it overboard. All this was 
done in less than a minute. The captain then commenced 
upon me a volley of curses, calling me by every dreadful 
name he could think of, for throwing the hood overboard. 
I heeded not his curses, but sprang into the stern-boat 
with three other men^ She was immediately lowered away, 
and when in the water, and tackles unhooked, we discovered 
that the plug was out and could not be found. Neither 
were there any thole-pins. Here we were in a boat with the 
plug out, and no means of rowing, a gale of wind with a 
heavy sea, and going to seek a drowning man. However, 
it was no time to ponder over our hasty imprudence. The 
boys put out their oars, holding on with one hand, and pul- 
ling with the other. I put my thumb in the plug-hole until 
I could tear off something to stop the water, which I suc- 
ceeded in doing. We were pulling off in the direction of 
the man, as he was seen from the mizzen-rigging, they point- 
ing to us in that direction ; but we could make but little 
headway in consequence of our want of thole-pins, much 
water in the boat, drifting fast to leeward, and night near 
at hand. Under these circumstances we concluded to make 
our way back to the ship, and come within a trifle of stav- 
ing the boat along-side. 1 jumped onboard, and in a few 
minutes made some pins. Another crew jumped in the boat, 
started off, and brought the man on board. He was sitting 
in the hood very comfortably, but said he (after we had got 
on board the ship) when the boat turned back, I thought I 
was to be left, and opened my knife which 1 had slung around 
my neck, and if I had seen the ship make sail, it was my de- 
termination to have cut my throat, and thus end my misery 
at once. 

During all this time, the captain was raving about like a 
madman, cursing everybody and everything. He behaved 
in a most disgusting manner. This man, whom wo had just 
rescued, and whose name was Smith, proved to bo a consuin- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 199 

mate villain, which fact I shall have occasion to refer to at 
another time. 

As I was observing about our rotten ship, — it was true 
that the ship was in no immediate danger by this discovery ; 
although it might materially affect the voyage ; if it was 
thought necessary to go back or even to wait long enough in 
a foreign port for the required repairs. I saw at once that 
much devolved on me, and must confess that, although I did 
not like the captain, yet wished to show him that notwith- 
standing his abuse, I had sufficient pride to let him see that 
I was somebodv, and told him that if I could have the 
two boys that I should select, and as we were now in the S. 
E. trades, and in all probability should have good weather, 
that with the oak plank, and other materials of which we 
had plenty on board, I could repair the ship on the passage. 
With this he seemed much pleased, and told me to take as 
many men as I required, and Mr. Leach, or Mr. Lee (second 
mate,) would assist in any way they could. I requested Mr. 
Leach to get the larboard anchor aft out of my way, and the 
first thing to be done by me was to fit up a steam box, as 
the plank must all be bent. This I had no difficulty in do- 
ing, as there were pine plank enough among my load of 
lumber, that were just suitable. My pitch pot made an ex- 
cellent steam kettle. The steam box was rigged across the 
windlass, and well secured, all things belonging to the 
steam department were fixed up in good shape. Next morn- 
ing we turned to, took up the cathead, (beginning on the 
larboard side,) witli the bow rail, and commenced ripping 
down ; and sure enough, it was a bed of rot. My boys 
wrought like good fellows ; we had no ten hour system, but 
kept at it from daylight until dark. We had plenty of old 
spars for timbers, and luckily plenty of tools, as I had taken 
my own tool chest on board. Our greatest trouble was in 
working on the outside stage, both on account of losing tools 
overboard, and of holding on when the ship rolled. All these 
apparent difficulties were overcome, and in eleven days the 
larboard bow was repaired in a thorough manner, as far aft 
as the fore part of the fore rigging, inside and out. We 
then commenced upon the other bow, which required a few 



200 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

more days' work, as there was rather more rot than on the 
other side. And when we had completed these repairs, there 
was not oak plank enough left to make a cleet, nor spikes 
enough to fasten it on. Oakum, pitch, and in fact, all that 
was put on board was used up. I suffered much from thirst 
as we were very foolishly on allowance of water, when we 
had the between-deeks entirely empty, and could have ear- 
ned an abundant supply. I have lain nearly all night on a 
water cask with the bung out, and with a horn cup and a 
string, vainly trying to satisfy my thirst ; thus depriving my- 
self of sleep to satisfy a burning drought, as I was not allowed 
any more water than the others, notwithstanding my work 
was harder. I met my two boys in after years and at differ- 
ent times ; they were both shipmasters, and enterprising men, 
were very glad to see the old carpenter, and remembered 
the advice he gave them when boys. 

A very unpleasant affair commenced between the passen- 
gers and the captain, shortly after we left Boston, which en- 
tirely destroyed the harmony of the cabin during the passage 
to Bombay. While the Missionaries were in Boston, previous 
to their going on board the ship, their friends had procured 
for their comfort many things, more particularly designed for 
the ladies, such as sweetmeats, and preserves of various kinds, 
tea of an extra quality, and many small articles which prob- 
ably would not be included in the common bill of fare. 
These were in addition to the articles which have been named 
before. At the commencement of the voyage, the captain 
suggested to them that as their stores were many of them of 
a perishable nature, that they had better be used in common 
and when they were used up, then he would commence on 
his own. To "this they cheerfully consented of course, sup- 
posing his judgment to be superior to their own. So their 
chickens and ducks were killed, and their vegetables eaten, 
and everything went on first rate. The unmarried young 
lady (Miss Thurston,) was rather handsome, and very prepos- 
sessing in her general deportment, and it was said that the 
captain had, previous to our sailing, made some indecent al- 
lusions to certain intentions during the voyage. We had not 
been long at sea before it was apparent that all was not 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 201 

right in the cabin. One of the gentlemen with whom I was 
on intimate terms, in conversation one evening, while leaning 
over the weather rail amidships, intimated to me in a very- 
low voice, that their situation was rendered extremely un- 
happy through the counduct of the captain, but he hoped 
that strength would be given them to endure it until they 
reached their destination. I asked him what the trouble 
was. He then told me that the captain had insulted Miss 
Thurston, and confined her to her state-room, and that at 
some better opportunity he would tell me more about it, as 
the captain was now watching us, evidently suspecting tho 
nature of our conversation. The captain had prohibited ser- 
vice being held on deck upon the Sabbath. They seldom left 
their rooms during the day, but would come up in the even- 
ing, and take a seat on the lee side of the quarter-deck, 
avoiding the captain as they would a rattlesnake. I bade 
Mr. N o, good night. 

After we had separated, " the old man " called me aft, 
and says : 

" What do you think of these fellows that we have on 
board ? " 

" What fellows, sir?" 

"Why, these Missionary devils." 

" Well, sir, from what I have seen of them, I think them 
to be verv good people." 

"You do, hey?" 

"Yes sir." 

" Well, they are a set of scoundrels, and that lit- 
tle strumpet, ( Miss Thurston, ) I mean to turn her down 
among the men." 

I was thunderstruck. " Why, Capt. ■ , what do you 

mean, sir?" 

" I mean what I say." He then turned round and walked 
aft. 

The steward had previously told me that the captain had 
forbidden him giving them anything but salt beef and bread ; 
also, had ordered the molasses to be removed where they 
could not get it. They generally took their meals by them- 
selves ; sometimes the mate would dine with them, but very 



202 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

seldom, although they were on friendly terms. Notwith- 
standing, he was accused hy the captain of going into Miss 
Thurston's room during his watch at night. The captain 
had his meals served at another hour. 

I asked the steward how it was that they were obliged to 
live on salt beef, when they were so amply supplied by their 
friends previous to sailing. The steward's reply was, " that 
at the commencement of the voyage, the captain suggested 
that it would be better to have all as one common stock 
while it lasted, and then he would supply the table from his 
own ; so all the chickens were used up, while his remained 
in the coop. And now they were not allowed anything but 
what I have before stated. I had often noticed that after the 
passengers had dined, the captain's dinner, consisting of 
chicken and a nice pudding, would be sent to the cabin. 
Both mates dined at the table d' hote with the passengers. 
The orio-in of the trouble, I found out in the following 
manner: 

One very warm night, W. G d, the third mate, after 

the watch had been called at eight o'clock, it being his 
watch below, got into the stern boat under the tarpaulin to 
sleep there, rather than go below, as it was very warm. 
Shortly after he had ov>t into the boat, W. and Mrs. Graves, 
the two eldest of the Missionaries, accompanied by Miss 
Thurston, took their seat on the taffrail, very close to where 

W. G d was. and where he could distinctly hear all they 

said. Mrs. Graves commenced the conversation as follow* : 
" Now Philomela, as we have a good opportunity to converse 
by ourselves, I wish to open my heart to you. We have ob- 
served, with much pain, the familiarities and liberties the 
eaptain frequently takes with you. Now we do not accuse 
you, my dear, of encouraging these improprieties, but we do 
not think you are prompt enough in repelling them. Allow 
me to repeat again, my dear sister, we do not attribute thes 
liberties to any forwardness on your part, but we do attrib- 
ute it to your want of experience; and as you are, if your 
life is spared, soon to become the wife of an excellent min- 
ister of Christ, the requirement that you should be circum- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 203 

spect in your life and conversation, is incumbent on you 



now." 



Philomela had been weeping audibly for some moments. 
She now ceased weeping, and began her defence, which was, 
that after her recovery from sea-sickness, the captain would, 
in a fatherly manner, take her arm and walk with her un- 
til she was tired. She would then go below and rest herself. 
The captain would usually follow and take his seat beside 
her, and at times he had put his arm round her neck, which 
she of course, immediately removed. " And yet," she con- 
tinued, " I looked upon it as a parental freedom • not for a 
moment did I suppose he had any improper intentions, but 
the next time he shows any freedom towards me, I shall 
most assuredly resent it." The conversation ended here, as 
it was necessary to ge.t a pull of the spanker sheet, which 
disturbed the conference. 

And it now came out that the captain one afternoon, 
when smoking below, while Miss Thurston was engaged 
in sewing, advanced towards her, and blew the smoke in 
her face. She reproached him for his Impudence, not 
not only for this un gentlemanly act, but also, of former at- 
tempts of freedom, quite unbecoming a captain of a passen- 
ger ship, and also of a married man. This the captain con- 
strued into insult, and ordered her into her state-room, and 
not to come out without his permission. She had been shut 
up for some time in this suffocating weather, and begged 
that some means might be adopted by which she could get 
fresh air. The captain asked me if an air port could 
be cut through the ship-side without injury to the ship. I 
answered yes ; and was ordered to do it. I hung; a stage 
over the quarter, and cut a hole through. And as it was the 
windward side, when the breeze found its way into the state 
room, she put her head close to the port, and exclaimed, 
" Oh, how refreshing." 

I spoke a few words to her through the opening. The 
captain, hearing the conversation, leaned over the rail above, 
and says : 

" Well, carpenter, how do vou and Miss Thurston make it 
out?" 



204 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" First rate, sir," said 1. 

11 Well, let us have less talk there." 

I looked up at him with an indignant scowl. " I shall 
talk as much as I please, and you may help yourself the 
best way you can." 

He went off without replying a word, I kept about 
my duty, and finished my job, and if ever there was a man 
that I heartily despised, it was this one. My duty was faith- 
fully discharged, and my deportment such as not to come 
within the reach of censure. We drew near our destined port, 
made the island of Ceylon on the first of February, and 
Cape Comorin on the fifth. Our Sultan evidently began to 
repent his villanous treatment to these defenceless people, 
or else he hypocritically feigned it in order to escape that 
punishment he so richly deserved. He liberated Miss Thurs- 
ton, saying it was done in a fit of rashness, and he had mis- 
construed her conduct. He also apologized to the others, 
who, not wishing to injure him, freely forgave all that had 
taken place. He was now as fawning as he was tvrannical 
before, and nothing was good enough for these " ladies and 
gentlemen." 

We were ten days beating up the coast of Malabar, and 
fell in with a ship from London, with a deck load of blood- 
hounds. The crew had been on a short allowance of water 
for thirty days, and in consequence of not having plenty of 
water for the dogs, some of them would become frantic, run 
about the deck, frothing at the mouth — the crew escaping 
to the rigging until the dogs become quiet. 

From Cape Comorin to Bombay, the coast, ( Malabar, ) 
is lined with pretty villages ; and ships beating up, are gen- 
erally close in with the land in the morning, standing off 
with the land breeze during the day, and running in with 
the sea breeze at night. The air from the shore is really re- 
freshing after being four or five months at sea. The natives 
are all ready to board the ships when near enough to the 
shore, with a full supply of chickens, ego-s, cocoanuts, and all 
sorts of tropical fruit, besides excellent fish. 



CHAP TEE IX. 

Arrival at Bombay, — Intelligence reaches the Mission House, — Mr. New- 
ell comes on board, — Artful design of the captain, — Imprudence of 
Miss Thurston, — Disappointment of Mr. Newell, — He is made ac- 
quainted with the proceedings of the voyage, — Excitement on shore, 
— Indignation of Mr. Newell, — Captain is despised, — Miserable death, 
— Subsequent visit to the Mission, — Bomb boat men visit the ship, — 
Orders of the captain, — No notice taken of it, — Poisonous liquor, — Its 
effects. — Visit of other crews, — Insulting language to the mates, — Mu- 
tiny, — Feirful results, — Mutiny quelled, — Grossly insulted, — Indigna- 
tion of the captain, — Villany of Smith, — Remarks on the subsequent 
career of the crew, — Visit to the Elephanta, — Row between the bomb 
boat men and captain, — Sail from Bombay, — Meet a pirate, — Men's ac- 
counts made out, — They refuse to sign them, — Mate ordered to whip 
them into the cabin, — Pompous third mate, — Difficulty on the passage 
out. — Remarks on the dignity of an officer, — Quarrel with the third 
mate, — Fight, — Interference of the captain, — Strikes the mate, — All 
right again, — Arrive on the coast, — Take a vineyard pilot, — He gets 
drunk, — Does not know where the ship is, — We take a Boston pilot, — ■ 
Arrive safe, — Macedonian frigate ready for sea, — Our ship boarded by 
the first lieutenant, — Interview, — Call on board the frigate, — Interview 
with Capt. Downes, — Consent to go the cruise, — Our ship hauls in to 
the wharf, — The mate flogs the captain, — Prepare for a three year's 
cruise, — Lay in plenty of stores, — Found fault with, — Meet Com. Hull, 
— Sail for N. W. C, — Appearance of a gale, — Gale, — I was thrown 
down and injured, — Man knocked overboard, — Dreadful hurricane, — 
Mainmast sprung, — Our ship laboring heavily, — We fish it, — Main 
yard comes down, — Breaks off, — Injures no one, — Volunteers called 
to go up and cut away the topmasts, — Foremast is sprung, — It 
is fished, — Foreyard comes down, — Injures no one, — Mizzen mast goes 
by the board, — Boats blown away, — Dreadful night, — Gale abates to- 
wards morning, — Prepare for getting up jury masts, — Clear the wreck, 
— Make sail, — Think the ship is hailed, — Lay to for a brig, — Obstinacy 
of her captain, — Threaten to fire into her, — Arrive at Norfolk, — Anchor 
off Gosport, and prepare for refitting, — Ready for sea in eleven days, — 
Scientific corps leave us,-~Anecdote during the gales, — Double Cape 
Horn, — Arrive at Valparaiso, — Lose a man overboard, — Warlike ap- 
pearance of Chili, — Transports, — Chilian men of war, — Fatal duel. 



206 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

On the 17th of February we arrived at Bombay. The 
intelligence of our arrival soon reached the Mission house. 
Mr. Newell came on board and made arrangements for the 
journey to the mission station, as soon as permission could 
be obtained for landing, which would probably be on the fol- 
lowing day, and as the distance was only a few miles, Mr. 
Newell went home and was to return next day, with a car- 
riage to carry them to their future residence. The permit 
for landing came off at nine o'clock A. M. The captain went 
on shore, and in an hour returned, saying to Miss Thurston 
that as he had specie for the Mission house, he must go 
immediately up, and engaged a horse and buggy, and 
should be happy to have her accompany him, as in all prob- 
ability the carriage which would be sent for them would be 
crowded. To this proposal all seemed to acquiesce, so Philo- 
mela, dressed in her go-ashore attire, stepped into the boat, 
and no doubt the poor girl leaped for joy at the idea of once 
more stepping foot on the land, and of being liberated from 
what must have been to her a dreadful prison. Bat little 
did she think that in complying with this apparently very 
polite invitation, that she was adding to the weight of cal- 
umny that would naturally reach the ears of Mr. Newell. 
This wily and designing man, instead of driving directly 
to the mission house, which could have been reached in less 
than two hours, and thus giving Mr. Newell an opportunity 
of a private interview with his intended bride, drove around 
through the jungle, a solitary road through the woo'fs, mak- 
ing a circuit of many miles, and taking up the greater part 
of the day. In the mean time Mr. Newell had come to the 
landing-place with a carriage, went on board the ship, and 
to his surprise learned that Miss Thurston had been gone 
two hours with the captain ; lie also expressed much surprise 
at not meeting them on the road, and appeared much disap- 
pointed. The sailors now began to make remarks very free- 
ly, and of course the transactions of the voyage soon became 
known on shore, and as a matter of course reached the ear of 
Mr. Newell, from a quarter which gave him much uneasiness. 
I afterwards learned that the whole matter was investigated, 
and that Miss Thurston was fully exonerated from any im- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 207 

propriety, or the smallest deviation from the character so 
indispensably necessary for one shortly to become the wife of 
a Missionary of so exalted a character as that of the Kev 
Mr. Newell. 

This affair created much excitement among the well-dis- 
posed at Bombay, while at the same time it caused some 
merriment among the low and vulgar. The captain was 
generally despised by every one, and we believe was entirely 
without associates. Mr. Newell was highly indignant at 
the treatment of Miss Thurston ; but what could he°do ? A 
law suit would involve him in much perplexity and expense, 
so he gave it up, and let the fellow run. Had the passen- 
gers been any other than non-resistant missionaries, he would 
not have dared these cowardly insults. But he got his re- 
ward, for on his next voyage he died of a loathsome disease, 
unattended, unlamented and unmourned. 

Mr. Lee (second mate,) and myself went up to the Mission 
house, and were well received by our friends, and passed a 
very agreeable afternoon together. Miss Thurston was to be 
married in a few days, and everything appeared pleasant. 

On the second night after our arrival, we came very near 
having a fearful tragedy enacted upon our deck. Before we 
had come to an anchor, the ship was surrounded with boats, 
filled with numerous characters offering their services in any 
capacity, and among them several bomb boats, each man 
having a bundle of certificates from the last ship, testifying 
to his honesty and fidelity, and at the same time the £rreates"t 
scoundrel on earth. The fellow that gets on board firs? claims 
the ship. The successful candidate for our custom was Fran- 
jee-Nabob, a Parsee, "with all ting to sell to the seamen." 
The captain called him aft, and in the most peremptory man- 
ner forbade him selling the men any intoxicating liquors, or 
of trusting them one pice, (a cent,) as he should not advance 
them a farthing. Old Franjee understood the matter, hav- 
ing had such interdictions before; he made his salaam, and 
very meekly responded : 

" No, sir!" 

As soon as the captain had gone over the side into his boat 
the old Parsee bomb boat man went forward among the men, 



208 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and told them what orders he had received. " But," said he, 
"no much matter for dat. I trust you just hoiv much you want. 
'Spose you want 'rack, (rum.) I give you much you want 
I got plenty in my boat now. I bring 'em up. ,} 

This was good news for Jack. They soon had a fine treat 
out of all the good things that the shore afforded, availing 
themselves of this unlimited hill of credit. There were then 
lying in the harbor with us, three American vessels, two ships 
and a brig. The crews of these vessels, or rather the num- 
ber that could he spared, came on board our ship, on what 
was no doubt intended as a friendly visit, and it would have 
been such, and ended well, if it had not been for that ac- 
cursed crazy liquor called arack, made from the cocoa-nut, 
more maddening in its influence than any other intoxicating 
drink on earth. Our crew had been apprised of the intend- 
ed visit, and had provided large quantities of grog for the 
occasion. 

At about 9 o'clock P. M., they had become very noisy. 
Here were our own crew, eighteen, and twenty-four of the 
others, making in all forty-two, trying to sing, and bellow- 
ing out in a most frightful manner. Mr. Leach went for- 
ward and sung out to them below that it was time for them 
to go on board their ships. He was answered by a most in- 
solent and indecent reply from one of our own crew. Mr. 
L. was a kind hearted and gentlemanly officer, and such an 
answer from one of our own men, who had always received 
good treatment and kind words from him, deserved severe 
punishment. Mr. L. came aft ; there were the three mates, 
boatswain and myself, on the quarter-deck. Mr. Lee, the 
second mate, was a tall, raw-boned fellow, and very power- 
ful. He wished Mr. Leach to let him go forward and order 
them to go on board their ships. Mr. L. thought he would 
wait a little longer, when probably they would go of their 
own accord. I had been hard at work during the day, and 
went below to my hammock, which was in the steerage, and 
hardly fallen asleep, when a voice from the deck called out: 

11 Jump up, carpenter, and knock the arm chest open." 

I sprung out and ran upon deck, which I had scarcely 
reached before a handspike came, end over end, whizzing by 



I 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 209 

me. There was a man standing on the arm chest, swearino* 
by horrid oaths, " the arm chest should not be opened." Mr. 
Lee caught up a capstan bar, and with one blow dropped the 
fellow from off the chest, and then broke it open. Durina- 
this time, the mob were rushing aft, throwing all sorts of 
missiles, crying out : 

" Drive the rascals overboard !" meaning myself 

and the three mates. I dodged for a moment into the gal- 
ley until I could get the hang of the mutiny. 

By this time the two mates had got a loaded blunderbuss 
each, and held them cocked, swearing if they came any far- 
ther aft, they would fire. 

"Fire, and be ," said Smith, (the felloiv we saved 

from drowning at the commencement of the voyage.) 

They now closed upon us, and we sung out, " Mutiny I " 

There was a French ship lying near us, who had heard 
the row, and were preparing to come to our assistance. We 
saw the lanterns running fore and aft, and their men getting 
into their boats. We were now clear aft on the spar across 
the boat's davits, ready for a jump overboard. 

Just as the mates were about pulling the triggers, which 
would have sent death among them, each blunderbuss hav- 
ing fifteen musket balls, the Frenchmen sung out they 
were coming. The mutineers then began to move forward, 
hauled up their boats, and went over the side, uttering the 
most blasphemous imprecations upon us all; and when in 
their boats, they gave three cheers, singing out, " This is the 
first time the Yankee flag has been disgraced by calling a 
Frenchman to abuse American seamen. 

Our crew in a most mutinous manner answered their cheers, 
and they went off. Thus ended this serious affair, and if 
the Frenchmen had not started just as they did, the blun- 
derbusses would certainly have been fired, and who can tell 
the result? We thanked our French neighbors for coming 
so well prepared to our assistance. 

When the captain came on board next morning, and heard 
the story, he fairly abused the mates for not firing into them, 
and ordered the crew to prepare forgoing before the author- 



210 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

ities on shore, where lie insisted they should go and be tried 
for mutiny. 

On going ashore, he was told by his merchants that the 
proceeding would subject him to much expense and delay, 
and if the crew were convicted of mutiny, there would be a 
long tail to it, and it would be impossible to get another 
crew ; so he relinquished the procedure until our arrival in 
the United States. They went abjut their duty, but were 
rather sulky, every one feeling a deep conviction that he had 
done wrong; and that villain, Smith, was the ringleader of 
the whole concern. And not withstanding the mutinous con- 
duct of these men, they were probably as intelligent a set 
as were ever together as a crew. Ten out of the eighteen 
became ship-masters, and I remember conversing with one, 
and as he is now dead, will call him by name, John Schol- 
field, one of the leading mutineers of the u'vAit at Bombay, and 
also a quarrelsome man, and very impudent to his officers* 

This man commanded the ship Arab, of Boston, about rive 
years after our return from that voyage. One day I spoke 
to him about the affair on board the Saco, and as I was re- 
pairing the Arab, we had frequent opportunities of talking 
over old matters. And I ought to observe, however, that at 
the time he commanded the Arab, he was of course another 
man, quite gentlemanly, and seemed much ashamed of his 
conduct on board the Saco, and was unwilling to talk about 
it, attributing it solely to the effect of rum. Another, John 
Ward, a Boston boy. He afterwards commanded the ship 
London Packet, of Boston, and was finally killed by the pi- 
rates. Another commanded the fine ship Horatio, of New- 
York, thus showing that bad men may become respectable 
and good men by forsaking intoxicating drinks and evil com- 
pany. But to return to our voyage. 

One Sunday, Mr. Lee, second mate, Mr. Goddard, third 
mate, myself and John Peverallv, hired a native boat and 
went over to the famous island of " Elephanta, called by 
the Hindoos, Gharipoon. It is about 5 miles from Bombay. 
It contains one of the most celebrated temples of the Hin- 
doos. The figure of an elephant of the natural size, but 
coarsely in stone, appeals on the landing place, near the, foot 




AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 211 

of a mountain. An easy slope then leads to a subterranean 
temple hewn out of the solid rock, eighty feet long, and 
forty feet broad ; the roof supported by pillars, of which 
there are several rows ten feet high. At the farther end 
are gig-antic fig-ares of the three Hindoo deities, Brahma, 
Vishna, and Seva, which were mutilated by the zeal of the 
Portuguese, when this island was in their possession. 

Elephanta was ceded to the English by the Mahrattas." 
John Peverally was a good player on the clarionet, and had 
an excellent one which he took with him, and the effect of 
these sweet notes, reverberating through these caverns, was 
delightful There was a large pool of exceedingly cold 
water, and of sweet taste. I got into the boat from the 
ship without my shoes, for which act of carelessness I was well 
paid, by having to walk barefooted nearly two miles through 
briars and thorns ; but notwithstanding this, we had a fine 
time. 

About the middle of May, 1818, we were ready for sea. 
Our crew had, in consequence of old Franjee's willingness to 
give them credit, run up tremendous bills ; some had bought 
boxes of tea ; others had purchased beautiful India shawls, 
and Canton crapes, and had lived on the luxuries of the 
shore, besides a plenty of wild fire. I believe that they had 
an impression that the bomb boat man could not recover any- 
thing from them, in consequence of his being forbidden by 
the captain to trust them. But in this they were much mis- 
taken. On the day previous to sailing, the old Parsee made 
out a general bill of all the items furnished to each man, 
and taking* his brother with him as a witness in case of an 
assault, went to the captain's house, and presented his bill, 
somewhat over a thousand rupees. The captain, on reading 
the amount of the bill, caught up a chair and was going to 
strike the fellow over the head ; but he lifted his hand in 
defence, saving; : 

" No, captain I spose you strike- me, your ship no go" 

mi Begone, you scoundrel ! How dare you bring that 

bill to me? Bid I not forbid you trusting my men?" 

" Me merchant. Me sell anyting to anybody dat buy. You 
no pay me, your ship no go." 



212 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

This the captain soon found out, that he could not clear 
his ship with any debts due to natives, unpaid. There was 
no alternative now but to pay the bill, for which he was 
obliged to draw on his merchant. When he came on board, 
he seemed ready to burst with rage, but said nothing to the 
men until after we had sailed. 

On coming down the Coast of Malabar, one day, while at 
dinner, a suspicious looking craft came off from the shore ; 
she was about two hundred tons, lateen rigged, and full of 
men ; they were rowing with all their might, and we could 
see with the spy-glass that they were all armed, and nearly 
naked. They seemed bound to catch us, but what they 
wanted we could not tell. So we cleared away two of our 
six pounders, and gave them a few iron pills, which soon 
made them alter their minds, and they went, with the Scotch- 
man, " bock again." 

After we were clear of the land, the first thing to be 
done was to fix up the Bombay matter. Each man's account 
was made out, and fifty per cent charged against him for 
the money, and they were called to sign their accounts, which 
they refused to do. The clerk reported to the captain how 
the matter stood ; this raised him again to boiling heat ; he 
ordered the mates to take a rope's end, and begin at the 
first, and flos; him into the cabin. John Ward was the sea 
lawyer; he recommended resistance, but the rope seemed to 
alter his mind. The mates were glad of an opportunity to 
put the licks into these fellows, especially when the responsi- 
bility devolved upon the captain. Ward went down and 
signed his account, and the rest followed ; so that their India 
purchases did not turn out so cheap, after all. 

Our third mate G d, was a very pompous, disagreeable 

follow. His connexions were rich. He was a Boston boy, 
and had been several voyages to Europe. We messed to- 
gether, but were never on very good terms. He had been 
well educated, and thus supposed himself superior to all 
around him. On Ihe outward passage, he began to domineer 
over me, supposing of course that as he was third mate of 
an Indiaman, his rank was superior to that of carpenter, al- 
though he, the boatswain and myself, lived together in the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 213 

steerage. I had taken my own tools on board the ship, and 
would not allow any one to use them as they were kept in 
good order, and always ready for use. The ship had a tool- 
chest under the stern of the long-boat on deck. My work- 
bench was between decks, near the fore-hatch. G d came 

down one day, and says : — 

" Carpenter, I want a chisel to take up a mast-coat" 

" Well, you'll find one in the tool-chest on deck." 

He took up one of my sharp chisels, saying : 

" Til take this." 

11 No you don't take that chisel to rip up a mast-coat. 
Just lay it down." 

He gave me a savage look, saying : 

" Who are you talking to?" 

" I am talking to you." and at the same moment I caught 
up an axe, and told him "to lay the chisel down instantly, or 
I would split him down." 

Mr. Leach hearing the quarrel, came down to know what 
the trouble was. I told him. 

He then turned to G d, saying: 

" You have nothing to do with the carpenter or his tools, 
there is the ship's tool-chest on deck." 

G d went off, rather " down in the mouth," evidently 

mortified. 

I have mentioned this, apparently trifling circumstance, to 
show the necessity of maintaining our position, whatever it 
may be. It is a natural propensity in men, and more par- 
ticularly in sea-faring men, to assume authority that does not 
belong to them, and also to abuse the little brief authority, 
with which their position invests them. I am aware, that on 
board a merchant-ship, a carpenter is hardly a remove above 
a sailor, and is often at the beck and call of a green mate, 
that hardly knows the stem from the stern ; but in most cases, 
it is his own fault. If he is an intemperate man, he can- 
not look for respect. If, on the other hand, he undervalues 
his profession at- first, by mingling with the crew, and by 
showing an obsequiousness to the officers, which a proper 
and becoming respect for them does not call for, he cannot 
look for anvthino- more than common seaman's treatment. 



214 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I suppose that my coming so suddenly from a man-of-war to 
a merchant-man, caused me to feel the contrast more sensi- 
bly ; for while in the navy, I had always received from my 
superiors the highest respect due me, and when I went on 
board the Saco, was determined to conduct myself in such 
a manner as to command respect. I drank no ardent spir- 
its, used no tobacco, nor profane language. On the passage 

home, G d would frequently boast of his pedigree, and 

of his brilliant prospects. This would generally take place 
at dinner. While in Bombay, I built a house on the quarter- 
deck in which the third mate, myself, boatswain and sail- 
maker lived. Our table was directly over the cabin skylight. 
One day while at dinner, G d commenced his usual bom- 
bastic nonsense, at which I made a remark that he did not 
at all relish. He sat opposite me, and we were dining on bean- 
soup — he called me by a name too disgusting to mention 
here, so I took my plate of bean-soup and threw it in his face. 
We both rose and went at it in good fashion, and although 
he was all of thirty pounds heavier than myself, 1 knocked 
him down behind the door, and took him again as he arose, 
and was " pegging it into him/' when the captain, who was 
below, hearing the difficulty overhead, came up, and seeing 

the fight, drew off and hit G d a blow in the eye, say- 

ino* at the same moment, " vou scoundrel, you have 

been quarrelling all the voyage — that is a peaceable man, 

and quarrels with no one," alluding to myself. G d did 

not feel satisfied at the termination of the fight, and wanted 
to have it finished in fair play. " Very well," says I, " my 
good fellow come on," but the mate (Mr. L.) interfered, and 
here the matter ended. We made up the difficulty, and 
were good friends the remainder of the voyage. 

On the 4th of September, we took a Boston pilot, having 
been for the three previous days enveloped in fog. We saw 
a Vineyard fishing boat early one morning very near in. 
The captain hailed him and inquired how Cape Cod bore. 
" I)o you want a pilot ?" " No, please tell me Jtoie Cape 
Cod bears." " If you want a pilot, we will give you on ." 
Finding the fellow was determined to make .something out 
of our necessity, the captain asked him how much he would 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 215 

take the ship to Boston for. " A hundred dollars" was the 
answer. " 1 will give you seventy-five. " " Very well,' 7 says 
the pilot, " we '11 come along-side." The boat came and threw 
on board some fine codfish, and the fellow jumped on deck, 
and in a pompous manner stepped upon the round-house and 
cast a sort of knowing eye aloft, saying, <k give her the mus- 
lin — let her wear it." We loosed the top-gallant sails, 
and royals, and hauled on board the main tack. He gave 
the course, and then asked the steward for a glass of brandy. 
The decanter was brought to him, from which he helped him- 
self very freely, and was soon stowed away behind the 
wheel-house drunk. He came to himself again towards 
night, urging as an excuse for getting drunk, that he 
had been suffering from a severe pain in his bowels, and a 
very little overcame him. The captain forbid the steward's 
giving him any more grog. He was on deck all night con- 
tinually altering the course from three to four points, and 
in the morning freely owned that he did not know where we 
were, although we knew ourselves by the soundino-s to be 
near Boston Bay. At 3 P. M. saw the pilot-boat ahead, and 
the old veteran Wilson came on board. Now we were all 
right. Our quondam Vineyard pilot now T skulked behind the 
round-house, and did not show himself until the ship had an- 
chored. Whether he was paid or not I don't know. 

The pilot told me that the Macedonian frigate was lying 
in the harbor, fitted for a cruise to the North-West Coast of 
America. She was commanded by Captain Downes, my for- 
mer captain, was nearly ready for sea, and w T ould sail in a 
few days. As we were passing her, running slow, and being 
very near, I heard the boatswain's mate call away the sec- 
ond cutter, and saw my old friend Lieut. Maury, (our first 
officer on board the sloop-of-war Ontario) get into the boat. 
I knew in a moment what all this meant. It was known 
that we were expected every hour, and my furlough being 
out, this was to be my next ship. The boat came along-side, 
and Mr. Maury was received at the gangway by Mr. Leach . 
Mr. M. asked for me, and when he had shaken hands, said 
he had come on board at the request of captain Downes, who 
wished me to get ready as soon as possible and join the ship. 



216 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

He also invited me to call on board and see him before I 
went on shore, which I did ; had a very pleasant interview, 
and then went on shore to my friends. 

Next morning our ship hauled into the wharf at Charles- 
town. I went on board for my luggage. G d came 

down shortly after, rigged as a nabob. The captain had just 

gone into the cabin, when G d went aft. Looking down 

and seeing no one there but the captain, he stepped on to the 
cabin-stairs, shut the doors and went below, took off his coat 
and turned to upon the old fellow and gave him a sound 
beating. There said he, " You struck me on the passage home, 
when I could not help myself, and now I have paid you off." 
He put on his coat and went on shore. 

My next business was to prepare for a three-year's cruise. 
Captain Downes wished me to come on board as early as pos- 
sible to see about the stores belonging to the carpenter's de- 
partment, as that had not yet been attended to. In two 
days I reported myself ready for duty, and was ordered by 
the first lieutenant to go with the launch to the Navy Yard, 
and select some oak and pine lumber for the cruise, and as 
we were shoving off, he says, " Select only what you think 
will he necessary until we arrive on the coast; then we can 
get plenty. I do not wish to have the ship too much lum- 
bered up." " Aye, Aye, sir, said I," and went off. On ar- 
riving at the Navy Yard, I met Commodore Hull who ap- 
peared glad to see me, and gave orders to the store-keeper 
to deliver what I wanted. My first selection was twelve 
white-oak mast-fishes suitable for fishing a frigate's mast, 
four gun-carriage pieces, six inches thick, seven feet long, 
and eighteen wide ; also a number of pine plank, and some 
short pieces of oak of various thicknesses. When 1 got 
along-side, a.s I had previously expected, got a blowing up, 
for brinffinff olf so much --useless lumber, The second lieu- 
tenant, (now one of the oldest and most respectable post-cap- 
tains in the Navy), refused to take it on board, without first, 
consulting Mr. .Maury. It was finally hoisted on board, and 
snugly stowed on the booms. I fitted up my store-room with 

* The same term used l>v the officers of the Fireflv. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 217 

every necessary article for a three years' cruise, and on the 
20th of Sept. 1818, we sailed from Boston with a tine west- 
erly breeze. Our frigate was rather deep in the water, hut 
looked beautifully, as she glided " majestically slow before 
the breeze." 

We had a fine run oft* the coast, and across the Gulf. On 
the morning of the 26th, it looked very much like a blow. 
Thick, black clouds were rolling up all around. Mr. Maury 
gave me orders to examine every thing aloft, and report to 
him. I visited each masthead, and found all things right. 
Very soon all hands were called to send down top-gallant- 
yards, which had hardly been done, when they were again 
called to shorten sail. The mainsail was hauled up, and 
top-sails close-reefed ; then top-gallant masts housed. The 
gale had, been increasing, and now it blew a hurricane. Eve- 
ry square sail was furled, and the fore and main storm stay- 
sails were set. Scarcely had the fore storm stay-sail haliards 
been belayed, when the sail blew away like a kite. The sea 
ran fearfully high, and although only 4 o'clock, P. M., it was 
so dark we could hardy discern the ship's length ahead. 
Still the hurricane raged with unabated fury ; the hammocks 
were piped down, and a young man, (William Wilkins) while 
getting his hammock, was knocked overboard. The hatches 
on both decks were secured, and tarpaulins put over them. 
The ship was rolling and laboring very much, although she 
did not make much water. At 6 P. M, I went forward to 
my store-room hatch, and ordered the yeoman to pass up all 
the axes, thinking that possibly we might want them before 
morning. I had hardly given the order, when a heavy sea 
struck us, and threw the ship nearly over on her beam-ends. 
I was pitched headlong to leeward, and struck against a 
bolt in the side of the ship, which nearly deprived me of my 
breath. I lay there in the water until taken up and carried 
to my state-room. The doctor came and ascertained that no 
bones were broken, he bathed my head and back. I then 
lay down, as 1 felt faint, but had not been on my bed an 
hour, when I heard the grating of the after-hatch lifted, and 
a voice, which I knew to be the captain, giving directions to 
a midshipman, saying : " tell him if he "is able to stand, I 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 219 

wish to see him on deck." I knew this meant me. and that 
something had happened. I sprang up, and when the mid- 
shipman had reached the door, was ready to go on deck ; 
he delivered his message and appeared much frightened, 
saying, the mainmast was sprung. My pain had left me 
and I felt quite able for duty. As I stepped upon deck, I 
saw a collection of officers holding on around the mainmast. 
The ship was rolling so violently, that it was impossible to 
stand without holding on. I went directly to the captain, 
who was very near, who said to me, " Our mainmast is 
sprung, sir! and if you are able I wish you to examine it." 
The howling of the wind was such as to make it almost im- 
possible to understand a word or an order. I saw the trouble r.fc 
once, and could see that the mast was dangerously sprung, 
gaping open in seven places, two-thirds the way up. As I 
had been through the operation before, understood something 
about it. I had all my carpenter's crew called, knocked up 
the wedges on the gun-deck, so that the mast might have 
room to play, set the boatswain's mates to clearing away 
the mast-fishes, and, rousing them out, suggested to the 
captain the necessity of .cutting away the maintop-mast rig- 
ging, that the top-mast and top-sail yard might go over the 
side in order to save the mainmast. 

Volunteers were now r called that would go up on the tot- 
tering; mast, and cut the weather laniards. Midshipman R. 
S. Pickney, with two others, undertook the hazardous duty ; 
for had the mainmast gone over the side while they were 
aloft, there would have been an end of them. They succeed- 
ed in reaching a suitable position, with hatchets strung at 
their backs, and chopped off the rigging. They came safe- 
ly down, and after a few lurches, all above the main cap 
went over the side. But before the top-mast went over, it 
was almost certain that the mainmast would go, as it was 
broken off in several places. At one time the captain or- 
dered me to cut away the mast. I made a few blows, when, by 
the falling of the top-mast, the lower mast was much relieved. 
Some were now busily employed in clearing away the fallen 
spars, and others in assisting me in getting the fishes in th<ir 
place. The incessant rolling of the ship made this a difficult 



eHa i- 







AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 221 

job; they were however securely spiked and plenty of o-ood 
lashings packed round them, after which, we considered the 
mast secure. While we were engaged about this job, the slings 
of the mainyard broke, and it came down among us, and 
although there were twenty men at work on the mast under 
it, not one was injured. The yard broke off in the middle, 
and while hauling it out of the way, we heard the report 
that the foremast was sprung. This was apalling news, es- 
pecially just at this time. Capt. Downes wished me to go 
forward and examine it, which I did, and sure enough, it 
was broken off just above the deck, and in several places 
higher up. I left the mainmast now in the hands of the 
sailors, who were securing the lashings, and took my crew 
forward, cleared away the wedges, and with much difficul- 
ty, we succeeded in getting the fishes in their places, and 
spiking the ends, as we had done with the mainmast. The 
top-mast and top-sail yard had already gone over, togeth- 
er with the jib-boom. The lashings were passed and secured 
in a workman-like manner. We got up two large tacklea 
on each side, to assist in supporting the mast, as the fore- 
rigging was somewhat slack. This was done while we were 
securing the fishes, and we now considered the mast safe. 
And strange as it may appear, the foreyard came down 
in about the same manner as did the main, and without any 
damage to those at work under it. 

The gale had not abated, but came on in sudden and 
fearful gusts that lasted from fifteen to twenty minutes, and 
during these squalls it seemed as if the heavens and earth 
were coining together. Our quarter boats were blown away 
as though they had been made of paper, and as though the 
tempest had marked us for a plaything, and before we had 
got through with securing the mainmast, crash went the 
mizzenmast over the side. It broke short off about four feet 
above deck. All hands were called to clear the wreck. A 
piece of the mast had got under the stern, and was thump- 
ing against the bottom, and would have soon made a hole 
in the ship if not speedily removed. All the axes, hatchets, 
and every sort of an instrument having an edge, were em- 
ployed in cutting away the rigging. I took my position on 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 223 

the weather quarter, and with an adze cut away whatever 
belonged to the mizzen-mast ; and although busily employed, 
holding on with one hand, and cutting away with the other, 
I could not help pausing occasionally, when the full moon 
would shine forth at short intervals between the rapid scuds, 
and there, all around upon the white crest of the mountain 
waves, were the dark fragments of our shattered spars and 
broken boats. And then the black heavy clouds would shut. 
,out the light again, as if it was a favor too great for us. At 
length the morning dawned. It was the Sabbath. The 
Almighty had said " Peace, be still !" The raging billows, 
obedient to the Divine command, had drooped their proud 
heads, and now all was still. Here we lay like a rolling log 
upon the ocean, and all around the decks were groups of ex- 
hausted seamen, catching a few moments sleep. Here we 
see Nature acting in direct contrast. Only a few hours be- 
fore, the elements seemed as if soon to melt with fervent heat, 
and the heavens to be rolled togetJwr as a scroll Now all is 
hushed ; a lighted taper may be carried fore and aft without 
being extinguished. The glorious sun emerges from the 
—o+ov shooting his rays over the glassy ocean, as though 
had happened. There is poor Jack perhaps, at this 
, in happy converse with some loved one on shore, but 
im must soon be disturbed, and changed into the 

' CD 

>f clearing the wreck, and getting up jury masts. 

) had taken no food for twentv-four hours, there was 

place in each stomach that required to be filled. 

ns were served out, and we all had a good warm 

jt. I knew well what part of the play devolved on 

after consulting with the first lieutenant, went to 

; .th my crew. My first job was to get up a jury 

nast. This we did by cutting off the stump of the 

aast close to the deck, then cut a mortice in it, 

took — longest part of the broken main-yard, cut a tenon 

in the end, and shipped it into the stump of the mizzen-mast. 

Mr. Percival, (now Capt. Percival,) had the management of 

the rigging department. We also got up a top-gallant mast 

on the fore, and another on the mainmast, next fixed up 

the waist that had been stove in by a heavy sea, got a top 



224 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

sail yard on each inast on which we could carry a whole top- 
sail in good weather, and top-gallant sails over them. Our 
jib-boom went with the foretop-mast, and the bow-sprit was 
sprung so that all that we could do forward was to set a fly- 
ing jib, and in two or three days we were quite snug. When 
we turned the ship's head for home, we were one thousand 
miles east of Norfolk, and for which place we steered. Our 
rig was a curious one. 

One day on our return, we saw a brig coming down with a 
fair wind across our bow. 

We backed our sails and lay by for her, as the captain 
wished to speak her. He ran down quite near us, showing 
no colors. Capt. Downes hailed him, to which he returned 
no answer, evidently intending to run by us. 

" Bound to, sir," said Capt. Downes. 

He paid no attention to this order, neither had he shown 
any colors. 

" Clear away the bow gun, and give him a shot across the 
bow, sir," which was no sooner said than done. 

This brought him to his bearings ; he came round under 
our quarter, and yet showed no colors. W r e had none hoisted 
ourselves, because we had no place yet prepared for them. 

" Why don't you hoist your colors ? " said Capt. Downes. 

" Why don't you hoist yours ? " said the stranger. 

" You scoundrel, if you donH show your colors, Til 

give you a slwt" 

He then caught up his ensign, and gave it a shake, (it 
was English,) and then threw it down. 

" Hoist your flag at your peak, sir." 

By this time he was close under our stern. The English- 
man looked up, and said : " I don't know who and what you 
are ; such a devil of a rig," and at the same time run his 
colors up to his peak. Capt. Downes told him of our dis- 
aster, and wished him to report us on his arrival, which he 
promised to do, and appeared to be a clever fellow, after all. 

An incident occurred the night after the sale, which I 
should have mentioned before. At about 10 o'clock, a man 
on the forecastle sung out, " Some one is hailing the ship, 
sir ! " I happened to be on deck at the time. The officer 



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22G AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of the deck came forward and ordered silence. Not a breath 
was heard from any one, when directly we heard, from ap- 
parently a short distance on the weather how, " Hoa ! hoa ! ' 
We fired a gun, and hove the ship to ; sent men aloft tj look 
about in every direction, and lay by all night. As soon as 
day dawned, the captain, and every officer with spy-glasses, 
distributed about the ship, commenced searching for what we 
supposed to be a boat, with the survivors of some unfortu- 
nate vessel ; but we could see nothing, nor did we ever know 
anything more about it. Many suppositions and opinions 
were given, but here the matter ended. There can b. 1 no 
doubt but that in this dreadful gale, some poor fellows found 
a watery grave. 

In sixteen days we arrived at Norfolk, which I think was 
about the 17th of October; anchored off Gosport, near the 
Navy Yard. I had previously prepared a list of spars, with 
their dimensions, and as soon as our anchors were down, bv 
order of Capt. Downes, went on shore to the Navy Yard ; 
found Mr. Grice, naval architect, gave him the list of spars, 
and fortunately there were three masts, already put together, 
and only required hooping ; they were of the right dimen- 
sions. 

Preparations were now made for hoisting out the broken 
masts. I took the fishes off, determined to keep them for the 
good they had done ; the mainmast hardly held together long 
enough to be hoisted out ; and when they were lowering it 
over the side, it fell to pieces. Carpenters and calkcrs went 
to work on the ship, and the spars all commenced upon, and 
in eleven days our pretty frigate was all ready for bending 
sails, (which had also been made since our arrival,) and on 
the 1st of November, we were ready for sea. 

When we sailed from Boston, there were several gentlemen 
that joined the ship as botanists, and naturalists, and scienco- 
ists ; and as they had got their bellies full of sea, concluded not 
to try it again. During the night of the gale, two of these 
half-and-half fellows were drowned out of the cockpit, where 
they lived, and crawled up to the gun-deck. They were 
hanging on to ;t stanchion with the parson, a tall slab of a 
fellow. I had several old salts assisting me in getting 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 227 

the wedges clear of the mainmast. Occasionally they would 
rip out an oath, which completely shocked these poor useless 
beings. ' ; Oh," said one, " don't use profanity at this time." 
There they were, hanging like a sick monkey to a lee-back- 
stay ; of no more use to the ship than a spare pump. Such 
chaps as these are of but little use anywhere, more especial- 
ly in a gale of wind. 

All the officers deserved much credit for their energy and 
promptness in refitting the ship. We dropped down to 
Hampton-roads, and from thence went to sea, with every- 
thing above deck new and strong, and the frigate through 
out in firstrate order. I looked out again for plenty of 
stock in my line of business. My old friends, the mast-nshos, 
were snugly stowed away with some small additions from the 
Navy Yard at Norfolk. I have another story to tell about 
the fishes by and by, notwithstanding there was so much 
trouble about taking them on board at Boston. 

CD 

We had a fine crew, p-enerallv ; there were about forty, 
however, that were turbulent fellows. They had been on 
board of English men-of war, and found much fault with 
the discipline of the Macedonian. But Mr. Percival was a 
terror to these evil doers, and they soon became suppled down. 

We doubled Cape Horn about the 1st of January, 181:), 
and arrived at Valparaiso in seventy-nine days from Norfolk. 
Two days before arriving at Valparaiso, we lost a fine fellow 
overboard ; he was on the bridle port drawing water for wash- 
ing deck. The lanyard broke, and he fell into the w T ater, 
and although he swam nearly as fast as the ship was going, 
yet before the boat reached him, he went down. 

Valparaiso presented a scene of warl ike activity. Chili had 
declared themselves a Bepublic, and were at war with Peru. 
Lord Cochran was commander-in-chief of the Chillian navy, 
consisting of two or three frigates, a corvette, and some small- 
er vessels. A number of merchant ships were employed as 
transports to carry their troops to the head-quarters, near 
Lima. 

I have now another tragical affair to relate, the result of 
cherished hatred, arising from the most trifling circumstance, 
of what is too often erroneously construed into wounded 



228 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

honor, and for which nothing can atone hut hlood ! Two 

midshipmen, A e and G n, had quarrelled some six 

weeks hefore our arrival. It originated from a very trivial 
circumstance about relieving each other, as they were in dif- 
ferent watches. Some sharp words passed, when one, in a 
hasty manner, gave the other the lie. These two young gen- 
tlemen had been, up to the time of the quarrel, like brothers. 
I have frequently seen them sitting with their arms around 
each other's necks, and reading from the same book. 



CHAPTER X. 

Futility of human friendship,— Further particulars of the duel,— Unfeel- 
ing conduct of the murderer, — Land our provisions, — Prepare for go- 
ing down the coast,— Chillian fleet,— Lord Cochran requests Captain 
Uownes to defer his visit to Callao, — His Lordship visits the Macedo- 
nian,— Description of his person,— Foster, the thief,— He deserts ,— 
Efforts to arrest him,— Seen on board the Rose,— While at work on 
board a whaler,— Wrote a note to Mr. Maury,— Rose searched,— Fos- 
ter found,— Carried on board the frigate,— Put in irons,— The Rose 
swings near the whaler,— My life threatened,— No danger,— Threaten 
to kill me if caught on shore,— Mr. Lewis, sail-maker, waylaid by the 
Spaniard, stripped and buried in the sand, as dead,— Crawled into a 
shanty,— Messenger sent to the frigate,— Boat sent for him,— Specimen 
of the Rose's crew, — Capt. Downes becomes acquainted with a Ger- 
man baron,— I am requested to fit up Lady Cochran's palace,— Sail 
for Coquimbo,-Protection of the brig Warrior,— Accident to Mr. Brock, 
—Sail for Arica, — Receive on board a large amount of specie, — Smug- 
gling, — Sail for Callao, — Requested by Cochran not to enter,— A good 
deal about the bazzar, — Arrival at Panama, — Suspicion, — Barron leaves, 
—Meet the Rose, — Prepare for action,— Search her, — Her imminent 
danger if she had fired,— Sail for Puna,— Arrival,— Send a boat up to 
Guyaquil, — Boat seized, men imprisoned, — Suspicion, — Gunboats sent 
down to take the Macedonian, — Another boat sent up, — Explanation,— 
Friendly terms, — Handsome present of fruit, — Beautiful sight, — Fight 
between swordfish, thresher and whale, — Sail for San Bias, — Our busi- 
ness,— Destruction of a fine ship through superstition, — Dreadful tor- 
nado, attended with heavy thunder and lightning,— Ship Two Cather- 
ines struck, — Mainmast shattered, — Her Capt. in much trouble, — No 
assistance from the shore,-Gets assistance from the frigate,— I make him 
a mast, — She is ready for sea in four days,— Foster, the thief and deserter, 
punished, — Description of his punishment, — Another duel under way, — 
It is prevented, — Contrast between the combatants,— Remonstrance, and 
remarks, — Not necessary to go to Columbia river, — Explanation, — 
Difficulty among whaling seamen, — Exchange, — Remarks, — Fears of 
becoming short of provisions, — Ration reduced, — Whiskey gives out, 
— Choice of the men, — Promises of pay for short rations, — Stops at 
Acapulco, — Procure a few miserable bullocks, — Boats worm-eaten, — 
Repair them,— Sail for Tumbez,— Anchored off the mouth of a river, — 
Boat sent on shore, to explore,— Discover an Indian canoe,— They make 



230 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

their escape, — Overtake the boat, — Only a woman left,— Quiet her 
fears, — Return to the ship, — Fit out an expedition for wooding, and 
ship timber, — Lieut. Percival goes to Tumbez river in a whale boat,- 
Retums without being able to obtain provisions, — Find some oysters, 
— Go up the river on an exploring tour, — Discover an immense bed of 
ovsters, — Half the ship's company go on shore one day, — Treat out of 
oysters, — Next day the other half goes, — Remarks on the difference in 
the condition of the men since the whiskey was out, — Melancholy history 
of a young man,— Distress for provisions,— Water gives out,— I am taken 
down with fever,-Nauseous Medicine,— Several deaths,— Convalescence, 
— Cure myself by exertion,— Arrive at Valparaiso,— Whiskey,— Its effects, 
— Condition of the crew, — I obtain a good meal. 

But alas ! how futile and uncertain is worldly friendship ; 
the most trifling incident, apparently, and may be positively 
without the slightest intention of insult or even of wounding 
feelings, is immediately caught up, and by officious friends, 
magnified into an affair of honor, that cannot be settled in 
any other way, than with the pistol, at ten paces. 

On the morning after our arrival, they, with their two 
friends f and one of the doctor's mates, obtained permission 
to go on shore ; no one in the ship, except their messmates, 
knew anything of the challenge, or of their intention to 
fight when they went on shore. On landing, they went be- 
hind a ridge of land, which screened them from the frigate, 

arranged their distance, and fired. A e, fell dead. The 

bullet passed through his lungs, came out on the other side, 
and lodged in the arm near the elbow. When the ball 
struck him, he jumped up, exclaiming, "Oh my God! 7 and 
fell dead! A crowd of Spaniards soon gathered around 
them, and the corpse was brought to the beach ; a boat sent 
from the frigate, and it was brought on board, and placed 
in a coffin for burial. When this unfortunate young man 

was stepping out of the boat on shore, he requested Ch cl, 

his second, to write to his father, in Philadelphia, and say to 
him, "that he was sorry that he could not fall in a better 
cause," as though the dreadful presentment of death was 
before him, and when the body lay in the coffin, there was 
scarcely any appearance of death upon his face. The two 
red spots were still remaining upon his checks, and the ex- 
pression calm and unruffled. He was buried on the beach, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 231 

near the ship, as the Spaniards would not allow him an inter- 
ment in their grounds. 

Thus perished this young man. He died like a fool, and 
was "buried like a dog ; without a mourner or a sympathetic 
tear, far away from home. The news of his untimely death 
was soon wending its way to his beloved parents, friends, 
and the large circle of acquaintances among which he bad 
passed his boyhood. His aged parents were hourly expecting 
the news of his safe arrival at Valparaiso. They had writ- 
ten to him while at Norfolk, congratulating him for his de- 
liverance from the storm, and safe arrival in port. But the 
letter that was soon to rend their hearts, was near at hand, 
and when it was received, although I was not there to witness 
the scene, yet can well imagine it. 

The victor in this tragic affair, or the murderer, which- 
ever you may please to call him, came on board apparently 
undisturbed, and as I thought, with a sort of exulting look. 
He was placed under arrest for a few days, and then liber- 
ated, as duelling was not considered a punishable crime in 
the navy. Therefore there was no law against it. 

As our rigging required overhauling, the ship to be paint- 
ed, which we had no opportunity of doing at Norfolk, it was 
expected that we should remain some time at Valparaiso. 
There was also another circumstance that would probably 
detain us somewhat longer. It was the intention of Capt. 
Downes to visit Callao on our way down the Coast. Lord 
Cochrane was apprised of this, and requested Capt. D. to 
delay his visit until he had made his contemplated attack 
upon the place. To this Capt. D. courteously consented. 
The transport ships were receiving the soldiers; the ships-of- 
war, and store ships were all ready for sea ; and, taking the 
whole together, it was a formidable affair. Lord Cochrane 
Lad given the Chilians assurance that he would soon reduce 
the port of Callao, and Gen. San Martin with his vast army, 
encamped near the walls of Lima, gave encouragement that 

* He was a son of the Rev. Dr. Abercrombie, of Philadelphia, and a 
young; gentleman highly esteemed by all who knew him. 



232 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

he should enter the city triumphantly, and thus carry all 
Peru. 

I had never seen a more beautiful sight than this fleet 
presented when they sailed from Valparaiso. Lord Cochrane 
had managed to brush up the ships-of-war, aud they certainly 
appeared well ; his flag ship, the 0. Higgins, was a 44 gun 
frigate, and I believe a prize from the Peruvians. He had 
managed to get a crew for her, by shipping every runaway 
sailor from whalers or merchant-men of almost every nation. 
The Chilian government, placing implicit confidence in him, 
sanctioned whatever he did. They had a fine corvette built 
ship, which they purchased in New York. She was called 
Indepentia, mounting 22 guns. The ships had all left 
the harbor except one, that was being fitted for guns, which 
was the ship in which Lord Cochrane, lady and suite had 
come from France. 

The reader probably may not be aware that Lord Cochran 
was once a bold and daring admiral in the British navy, and 
in consequence of some misunderstanding with the British 
government, went over to France with his family. And, on 
hearing of the revolution in Chili, purchased the Bose, pro- 
ceeded to Valparaiso, offered his services as an admiral, was 
cordially received, and placed immediately in command of 
the Chilian squadron. 

His Lordship honored us with a visit just previous to his 
sailing. He probably wanted to see what we were made of, 
as the sequel will show that he considered us very much in 
his way. He was received by Capt. Downes with much po- 
liteness and attention, and as he was conducted round the 
ship, he noticed our guns with much scrutiny. They were of 
English manufacture, and all with the initials " G. R," near 
the breech. He no doubt made up his mind on the spot, that 
we could lick any of his ships, any how, although he had one, 
the Lotaro, that mounted fifty guns. He was a tall, fine 
looking man, with red hair, and very small black eyes, that 
were not shut while on board our frigate. He passed a high 
compliment on our good looking crew, and also spoke of 
having been on board the Macedonian, when under another 
flag. The reader is probably aware that she was taken by 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 233 

the U. S. frigate, United States, Commodore Decatur, during 
our late war with England. His Lordship with much po- 
liteness left the Macedonian, and on the next day sailed for 

Callao. 

The Chilians bought the Eose, which is the one now fitting 
for guns. We had a man on board the frigate that was a 
notorious thief, who belonged to the third cutter, his name was 
Foster. 

This fellow made a practice of stealing frocks, trowsers, 
jackets, and also of robbing bags whenever he could get 
access to them. And when the boat was called away would 
run below, get his stolen goods, shove them under his jacket, 
and while the boat was on shore would sell them for aqua- 
diente, (rum), which he managed to carry on board in a 
bladder, or skin, as sailors call it. Men frequently missed 
their clothes, not being able to account for them to the 
officers of their division, to whom they must account every 
month for every piece of clothing, and failing to do this, are 
either flogged or punished in some other way. 

Foster was finally detected in his villany. The midship- 
man of the boat caught him in the act of selling his plunder, 
and rather than suffer the penalty of theft, he ran from the 
boat, and fled into the mountains. Officers in disguise went 
in search of him, but without success. He was given up as 
not worth looking after. 

One day, some time after he had deserted, I was on 
board the iVrchimedes, a Nantucket whaler, Capt. Folger, 
under French colors. I had some carpenters at work on 
board of her. She was moored near the Rose, and when 
we swung, both ships came so near together, that it was an 
easy matter to jump from one to the other ; and while in 
this close proximity, one of my carpenters says to me, in a 
low voice, " There's Foster ! " I looked, and sure enough, 
there was his head plainly to be seen through the stern port. 
I immediately went into the whaler's cabin, and wrote the 
following note to the first lieutenant : 

" Mr. Maury, Sir : Foster, the deserter, is on board the Rose ; 
I think if Mr. Percival goes on board, he will succeed in getting 
him. Respectfully, S. F. Holbrook. 



234 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I hailed one of our boats that was just passing, and re- 
quested the midshipman to give the note to the first lieuten- 
ant as quick as possible. It was now 4 o'clock, P. M., and 
it would probably take the remainder of the afternoon to get 
him. Very soon after our boat reached the frigate, I saw 
two boats leave the ship, Mr. Percival and two midshipmen 
in one, and one midshipman in the other. Mr. Percival went 
along-side the Rose, and all went on board. The other boat 
proceeded to the shore with a written request from Capt. 
Downes to the Governor, for permission to search the Rose 
for a deserter, which permission was immediately given in 
writing, and taken on board the Rose, to Mr. Percival, who 
now, having authority, commenced the search, the officers 
persisting that no such man was on board. She was searched 
from stem to stern, every sail opened, not a hole but was 
probed with a sword, and when just about giving up the 
search, Mr. Percival stepped into his boat and came along-side 
the whaler, and asked me if I was positive that I saw him ? 
My reply was, " Yes, sir, and he is now on board that ship." 
As he went into the boat to continue the search, he observed 
to me, " I should relinquish the search, had I not the great- 
est confidence in your eye." I must confess I felt rather un- 
pleasant, as probably he might have been slyly put into a 
boat, or stowed away in some place where he could not be 
discovered ; in which case, doubt might have existed whether 
I had seen him, notwithstanding I was so certain about it. 
The sundown boat had now come for us ; myself and carpen- 
ters returned to the frigate. It was now dark ; Mr. Maury ob- 
served to me that if I was sure I had seen him, he was 
also sure he was there. In less than half an hour, the boat 
approached the ship ; she was hailed, and asked, " Have you 
got him V " " Yes," was the answer. This of course re- 
lieved my anxiety, and the doubts of others. He was dis- 
covered in a singular manner, and in a singular place. They 
had, after commencing the second time, examined every hole 
large enough for a cat to crawl through, and were about giv- 
ing it up, when accidentally looking down between some bar- 
rels of bread, they saw what appeared to be a platform of 
loose plank. Mr. Fercival run his sword down through every 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 235 

joint, and although he felt it go through what he supposed 
to be old rigging, paid no attention to it ; but just as they 
were about leaving, a young chap crouched down and looked 
under the plank, and sung out, " Here he is ! " The bread 
barrels were soon roused off, and the gentleman hauled out ; 
and although he was a large and powerful man, he had 
stowed himself away in a place hardly big enough for a man 
half his size- He was bleeding profusely, as the sword had 
gone through his thigh. The captain ordered him in double 
irons, and to be placed under the sentinel's charge until the 
measure of his punishment should be determined. 

Next day, I went on board the Archimedes with my car- 
penters, to finish the repairs on her deck ; and when the two 
ships came near each other, a gang of these desperate piratical 
villains rushed aft, with an intention of jumping on board the 
whaleship, to take my life ; and as the distance was rather too 
great for a jump, they did not attempt it, but shook their 
fists and knives at me, calling me by every horrid name they 
could think of, swearing with tremendous oaths, that if they 
could get near me, they would have my heart's blood. Add- 
ing also, " If we don't get on board that ship, we will have 
your life on the beach." They knew that I had given infor- 
mation of the discovery of Foster. Notwithstanding these 
threats, I was not in the least alarmed. The mate of the 
Archimedes, a fine, stalwart fellow, something over six feet 
in height, assured me that with himself and fifteen Nantucket 
whalemen with whale spades and lances, and myself with a 
good broad axe, and my three carpenters also well armed, 
we could put every man to death that would dare to put 
his foot on our deck. And had they made the attempt, 
there would not only have been a scene of bloodshed, but 
the world would have been rid of some of the greatest 
villains that it ever bore ; and it would not have ended here. 
Our frigate would have hauled alongside and blown her to 
atoms. In all probability, had not Foster been just what I 
knew him to be, a consummate villain, I should not have ex- 
posed him, even at the risk of not doing my duty as an 
officer. 

Valparaiso at this time was infested with a set of runaway 



236 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Botany Bay convicts, and it was dangerous to be on shore 
after sundown. Mr. Lewis, our sail-maker, in company with 
the gunner, had been out on a walk towards Ville de Mar, 
one Sunday afternoon ; they had walked too far to get back 
before sundown. Night overtook them two miles from the 
landing. All at once they were assailed by a gang of these 
fellows, and were both knocked down. Lewis was stripped of 
all his clothes, stabbed, and as they thought, killed ; he feigned 
dead, which saved his life. They dug a hole in the sand 
and buried him, and as he was nigh smothering, ventured to 
raise himself up. The robbers were now at some distance ; 
he, however, ventured to crawl out of his grave, and though 
weak from the loss of blood, and much bruised, succeeded in 
reaching the shanty of a Spaniard, who took him in and 
covered him with mats. He urged the Spaniard to get on 
board the frigate in some way, and report his condition. 

The gunner had succeeded in getting on board with the 
loss of his coat and hat. He was a very large and powerful 
man, and was successful in fighting his way to the beach, 
where there were plenty of boat's crews to assist him. When 
he got on board, he reported Mr. Lewis killed. A short time 
after, the Spaniard came off ; telling the story of Lewis' res- 
cue, a boat was immediately sent for him : he was brought 
on board, his wounds dressed, and soon recovered. These 
fellows were a sample of the Eose's crew. 

During the time we were refitting the ship, Capt. Downes 
was often at the Capital, Santiago, where he was introduced to, 
and became intimately acquainted with a German Baron, ap- 
parently of high respectability, who was making a tour through 
South America, but unfortunately, while at Santiago, was ta- 
ken quite ill, and at the time of his introduction to Captain 
Downes, so far convalescent as to walk out. He accompan- 
ied our captain to Valparaiso, was invited on board the 
ship, and treated with much attention. He suggested that 
he thought a trip at sea would be extremely beneficial to his 
health. Captain Downes, with his usual courtesy, offered 
him a part of his cabin, and it was now arranged that the 
Baron was to be the captain's guest during our cruise down 
the coast. Some small alterations were made in the cabin, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 237 

and the idea of having so great a personage as the Baron, 
for a companion, as he would doubtless be, among the ward- 
room officers, was quite pleasing. 

The Chilian government had given Lord Cochrane the 
large building, formerly occupied as the Custom House, for 
his residence. Lady Cochrane, who was the belle of Valpa- 
raiso, requested Captain Downes, with whom she was on most 
intimate terms, to allow me to make some alterations in this 
building, before she could consider it as her palace. Capt. 
Downes readily assented, and I took on shore three of my 
best joiners, and fitted her ladyship out in good style, and 
for which she paid me handsomely. We were now about 
ready for sea, everything on board, Baron and all. 

Mr. Rolla Weeins, midshipman, an excellent young gen- 
tleman, was left on shore too ill to go the cruise. About the 
10th of February, we sailed for Coquimbo, a short distance 
north of Valparaiso. Our business here was to liberate the 
brig Warrior, of New York. She had been seized for some 
pretended infraction of Chilian law, but as she was a very 
rakish looking brig, and would doubtless add to their small 
navy, it would be very convenient to seize and confiscate her. 
But they soon found that they had to deal with somebody 
else. We remained here but a few days and sailed again. 

On entering the Bay of Coquimbo, we found the whale 
ship Factor, of Nantucket ; the chief mate, Mr. Brock, had 
been cut down with the fluke of a whale, and barely escaped 
with his life. Our next stopping place was Arica, the most 
southern port of Peru. Much produce is brought here and 
shipped, and much however is smuggled. Previous to sail- 
ing, an arrangement was made at Valparaiso between Capt. 
Downes, and an English house, who had a brig trading at 
Arica, but was obliged to smuggle the money off at night. 
The arrangement with Capt. Downes was, that he should lay 
too off the port, during the night, and in the morning the 
brig would stand out to sea. We should then come together 
and receive the bars and plates of gold or silver, which she 
had received during the night, as there was some danger 
that she might be captured, as it was an enemy's port. 

We lay off and on here, six days and nights, and received 



238 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

on board, the proceeds of the brig's cargo, for which Captain 
Dowries was handsomely remunerated. We sailed for Cal- 
lao, but when close in with the island of St. Lorenzo, were 
boarded by the Gulverine, a gun brig belonging to Coch- 
rane's squadron. This brig had been kept out here on the 
look out for us, and with a request from his Lordship to Cap- 
tain Downes, that he would not enter the port of Callao for 
the present, as he should attack the ships that night. Capt. 
Downes, although anxious to go in, as he had official bu- 
siness, consented to this request. We then continued on our 
way to Panama. That night at about eleven o'clock, it being 
quite dark, a sail was discovered on our weather bow, close 
on board of us. We kept off a few points, beat to quarters, 
hung up the battle lanterns, masked fore and aft ; then 
hauled up and hailed the stranger, " What ship is that V no 
answer for nearly two minutes, when we were right abreast 
of him. We were hailed, " Wliat ship is tliat f" " This is the 
U. S. frigate Macedonian," and at the same moment giving 
the order, " unmask your lantern on the gun-deck." We 
were now within pistol shot of him, with our gun-deck illu- 
minated and lighted matches. He now gave the name of 
the ship — it was the Rose, her Spanish name I have forgot- 
ten. Capt. Downes ordered him to lay to, for he wished to 
board him, suspecting he had some of our deserters on board. 
Lieut. Percival boarded* her, and after an hour's detention, 
returned without finding any one. She had been fitted for 
twenty-two guns, and had a crew of one hundred and forty 
men. Her object was, without doubt, to capture any 
thins she could master, and if during our controversy 
there had been a flash seen on board of her, she would 
have been destroyed in fifteen minutes, for she actually was 
a pirate with a commission. We then sailed for Panama, 
where we arrived a few days afterwards. 

There was evidently some jealousy here, about who we 
were. Although we showed the American flag, yet they be- 
lieved us to be Chilians, and were no ways sociable, until they 
were convinced of our real character, and then the Governor 

* A mask, or a lantern, is a canvas bag pulled over the lantern so as 
to entirely hide the light until the very moment it is wanted. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 239 

became very polite. Capt. D. and the Baron were his guests. 
The Baron became quite enamored with his only daugh- 
ter, who was remarkably handsome and highly accomplished. 
There was something said about marriage, the particulars of 
which I did not learn. The Baron had now entirely recovered 
his health, had grown quite fleshy, and was really a good 
looking man. He had a full wardrobe of military dresses. 
Sometimes he would appear on deck with a green coat hand- 
somely trimmed with silver lace, two splendid gold epaulets, 
and a long string of medals of honor, which he had gained at 
different battles. Another time he would appear in a white 
uniform of the Austrian style, handsomely trimmed with 
gold lace, thus showing off in fine display. He now intima- 
ted his intention of crossing the Isthmus, and making a tour 
through the United States, and to accomplish this, it was 
necessary that he should have a good lot of money. Captain 
Downes cashed his draft on Kio Janeiro, for several thousand 
dollars. The purser also advanced a large sum. Many of 
the officers solicited from him the favor of taking some 
valuable curiosities in charge, and to deliver them to their 
friends, to whom he was furnished with ample letters of in- 
troduction. He had about ten thousand dollars in money 
and valuables, and with any quantity of letters to all the 
great folks at home. He was to stay with the Governor of 
Panama a few days, until a suitable escort could be got 
ready for crossing the Isthmus. His luggage went on 
shore, and the Governor gave a ball on the occasion. I shall 
have something more to say about our Baron at another 
time. 

Our next move was to the Island of Puna, at the month 
of Guayaquil river. On our arrival there, a boat was sent 
up to Guayaquil to apprize the Governor of the arrival of 
an American frigate in his waters. The boat was commanded 
by Midshipman W. T. Kogers, who was one of the most 
promising young officers in the Navy, and it is to be regret- 
ed that he has since left the United States naval service. 

The boat had no sooner reached the pier at Guayaquil, than 
she was seized by the soldiers, and the crew put in prison. 
Mr. Rogers was allowed to remain on parole within the lim- 



240 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

its of the city. In the mean time, two large gunboats were 
fitted out, and sent down to take possession of the frigate, 
for they were sure we were Chilians, as no American frigate 
would ever presume to go such a distance from home. The 
gunboats anchored very near us, and rather seemed to hesi- 
tate about how they should go to work to take us. After 
waiting a whole day they pulled up their anchors and went 
up river again without the frigate ; for we understood that 
they had positive orders to bring her up and moor her off 
the town, after securing the crew. Capt. Downes now thought it 
necessary to send another boat to ascertain what had become 
of the first. The second cutter was fitted out in charge of 
Mr. Percival, who went up to Guayaquil with an order from 
Capt. Downes for the immediate release of the first boat, with a 
suitable apology for imprisoning American seamen. The 
Governor being convinced of his mistake, not only released 
the men, but sent down a large quantity of fruit, with the 
required apology. 

While laying at Puna, we witnessed a beautiful scene, 
which was an attack of a swordfish and thresher upon a 
whale. While these two allies were attacking their ponder- 
ous enemy, one upon his back and the other beneath, the 
poor fellow would throw himself entirely out of the water, 
with these two deathly foes still hanging on to him, when 
in less than an hour the monster gave up and lay quietly 
upon the surface. 

We weighed anchor, and sailed for San Bias, a Mexican 
port on the south side of the Gulf of California, and at the 
entrance of the Iliver Santiago. Our business here was to 
ascertain the particulars of the capture of an American brig at 
St. Joseph, at the head of the Gulf of California, and ascer- 
tained that she had been previously liberated. On entering 
the harbor of San Bias, we were particularly struck by see- 
ing a new and beautiful corvette pierced for twenty-two 
guns, lying aground, and so badly hogged that she was not 
worth getting off. The masts and spars were all standing, 
the guns had fallen to leeward, and there she lay, a lament- 
able monument of bigotry and superstition. 

The history of the affair was as follows, which we learned 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 241 

from a gentleman on shore. The ship was built up the 
Gulf and came down to San Bias, preparatory to proceeding 
on a cruise. On entering the harbor the pilot was mistaken 
about the tide, and ran on to the flat ; and instead of imme- 
diately throwing over the guns, and letting the anchors go 
from the bows, these jackasses all got upon their knees and 
began to cry to some saint, and all this time the tide was 
ebbing, and she being quite sharp, heeled very rank, and be- 
ing much strained, on the next tide water flowed freely into 
her, and she never righted again. Poor deluded creatures! 
We found the ship Two Catherines, of Providence, Capt. 
Wyat, lying here. The captain had sold the greater part 
of his cargo, and intended going to another port. One 
night there come up a tremendous thunder shower, with very 
sharp lightning ; one flash struck the Two Catherines, com- 
mencing at the main-royal-mast head, and taking everything 
clean as it came down, leaving nothing standing but a 
shivered piece of the mainmast, about ten feet above deck. 
Capt. Wyat came on board the frigate early next morning to 
consult with Capt. Downes, who advised him to apply to the 
governor for assistance. He did so, and the governor told 
him it would require five weeks to get a spar from the 
country suitable for a mast ; also that he had no engineers — ■ 
meaning carpenters. 

It was the intention of Capt. Downes to have sailed the 
morning after the tornado, but was willing to remain if he 
could be of any service to Capt. Wyat. Now here was a dilem- 
ma ; the ship without a mainmast, and no means of procuring 
one. Capt. Downes wished me to go on board and take a 
look and see what could be done. I went on board and began 
to plan. That part of the mast below deck about four 
feet above was perfectly sound ; then there was a shattered 
part, about ten feet long above that. Themainyard could be 
repaired, but the rest must be new. There were spare spars 
on board the Two Catherines, and we had some on board the 
frigate that could be used, and then there were also our 
twelve mast-fishes, if the captain would be willing to part 
with them, and run the risk of wanting them ourselves. 

I made my report to Mr. Maury, who asked me if, with 
P 



242 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the materials within our reach, a mast could be made so 
that she could go to sea ? My reply to him was : " that if Mr. 
Percival would go on board, with a gang of our men, and 
take out the stump of the mainmast, I could take my car- 
penters and make a mast and what other spars she wanted.' 7 
This lie reported to Capt. Downes, who acceded to the ar- 
rangements, and accordingly, next morning, myself and six 
others turned to on board the Two Catherines. The stump 
was hoisted out, and by much contrivance we succeeded in 
making a substantial mast. I set our blacksmith at work on 
the hoops, as fortunately we had plenty of bar iron onboard, 
the hoops were made as soon as required, and in three days, 
the mainmast was ready for stepping, and as good and strong 
a mast as could be made anywhere. The other spars and main- 
top were soon made, and on the fourth day she was ready for 
sea. But very few of us eat idle bread during these four days. 

Foster, the deserter, was now brought up to receive what he 
richly deserved. He had been kept in irons since he was 
taken, a condition often attended with much suffering. All 
hands were called to witness punishment. He was seized up, 
and six dozen were put upon him in good fashion. He then 
had a yoke placed around his neck, with " thief" printed 
upon it. The yoke consisted of two pieces of oak board, 
each three feet long and five inches wide, the two pieces were 
fastened together with two bolts, with a hole in the middle 
of the voke for the neck, which is not to be taken off during 
the punishment. And in addition to this, he was placed in 
" the head," a most degrading position, and must mess alone, 
being considered as unworthy to associate with his former 
incarnates. Certainly, " the way of the transgressor is hard." 

AYhile at San Bias, we came near having another duel, and 
I believe had it not been for my exertion, (please pardon the 

►tism^ we should have been under the painful necessity of 
•nling another untimely death. Two midshipmen had 
quarrelled about some trifling affair, which of course resulted 
in a challenge. One of the parties, an amiable young gen- 
tleman, and with whom I was on very friendly terms, came 
frequently into my state-room for the purpose of arranging 
for this probably fatal climax. He had often conversed with 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 243 

me, and talked over his happy boyish days, and about his 
kind parents, his lovely sisters, and his extensive circle of 
friends. But now he was sad and downcast ; the chance of 
an inglorious death, and the impossibility of avoiding it with- 
out the loss of what was dearer than life, particularly among 
naval officers, honor. He had accepted the challenge, and 
of course could not back out without disgrace. The gen- 
tleman he was to fight with was exactly his opposite, both in 
character and disposition. He was from Virginia, very in- 
temperate, quarrelsome, and what is called by this class an 
excellent shot, and was very mean and unofficerlike in his de- 
portment. This was the man before whom my highly es- 
teemed young friend from New York was to stand, at a 
distance of ten paces, and ten chances to one receive the death 
bullet. And then to be buried like a dog, nnlamented and 
unmourned, for he who falls in a duel seldom receives the 
sympathy that is shed for those that meet an honorable death. 
And as I before observed, then took the matter in hand, by 
laying before my young friend the dreadful consequences of 
being killed like a brute, representing to him the mistaken 
notions of honor, and the dreadful alternative he was about 
to resort to, in order to sustain that in which the very act of 
preserving it, was its complete annihilation. The young 
man shedding tears, said " that he well knew the result, and 
was not unmindful of what must follow. 

" If I am killed, oh ! what will become of my dear moth- 
er? My father may bear up under it, but it will kill my 
mother ! And you know I cannot back out now ; and sup- 
pose I should kill P , I should be miserable forever after, 

and if I don't fight, I shall be a disgrace to my mess." 

It being his watch he went out, and I went about the plan 
I had in view to end this unpleasant affair, and in conjunc- 
tion with two others, not necessary to be named, it was talked 
over and arranged that a meeting should take place and one 
shot only exchanged, after which the matter should end, and 
the hand of friendship mutually given. It was also mutu- 
ally understood that the shot was to do no harm. It may be 
asked why it was necessary to meet, if a settlement was con- 
templated. I would answer that in cases where duels are 



244 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

not consummated, apologies are made from one of the par- 
ties ; this generally leaves a sort of stigma upon him who 
makes the apology, and he is sometimes accused of being a 
coward. But when the parties meet and honorably (?) ex- 
change a shot, then both of them are considered of the right 
stuff. I would just add that the young gentleman whom I 
have named as my friend in this matter, arrived to the hio-h- 
est position in the navy, and is now one of our most accom- 
plished and gallant post captains. 

I mentioned at the commencement of this cruise that we 
were bound to Columbia river, on the north-west coast, but 
on our arrival at Valparaiso we learned that the difficulty 
which had required our presence at Oregon was now adjusted, 
hence there was no necessity of our o-oinp; there. We left 
San Bias and stood out four or five days to the westward, 
where we fell in with several whale ships, some of which had 
been very successful. We saw dead wh ales whifed° all around 
them. There was Capt. Chase, and Capt. Folger, and Capt. 
Putnam, and many other old worthies whose very names 
were a terror to whales, and it often happened that on meet- 
ing with a whaler, that there was some difficulty with the 
men, who were dissatisfied with whaling, and wanted to leave 
their ships. These matters were generally arranged between 
the two captains, as it always happened that we had a gang 
of turbulent fellows, continually making mischief which Ave 
were very glad to get rid of, so whenever an exchange was 
to be made, the word was passed fore and aft, 

" All you that want to go on board the ivhakr, lay aft on the 
qiiarter-deck" 

There was never any lack of candidates for a new ship, 
particularly among the class I have described, for two very 
important considerations weighed heavily in their favor. The 
first, there was no " cat" nor boatswain's mate, on board a 
whaler ; second, they were discharged from the naval service, 
and last, though by no means least, they were settled with and 

* Whtfed. — When more whales are killed than can be taken care of 
at the present time, a short staff with a flag upon it is stuck into the back 
of the whale so that they may be seen. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 245 

had their cash ; and if the kind whale-catching captain would 
give them a day's liberty on shore where any grog was to be 
had, he was pretty sure not to see them again until their 
money was gone. When the volunteers had all arranged them- 
selves on the quarter-deck, our first lieutenant, Mr. Maury, 
who had a keen eye, knew well who could be spared, and from 
these were selected the " whalers," and when the discontented 
men from the other ship had been received and their names 
on the ship's books, then the others went on board their new 
ship. I hardly ever knew a case where either party were 
much the gainers by the exchange. 

On our first arrival at Valparaiso, we put our beef and 
pork on shore, reserving it for the passage home, and taking 
on board in its stead, the salted meat of the country, which 
does not receive salt well, and but small quantities are taken 
on board at a time. Also, calculating to get fresh, meat at 
every stopping place, and it being now very evident that our 
cruise would be much longer than was at first anticipated, we 
w r ere under the necessity of having the usual allowance re- 
duced, as almost every article of provision was likely to fall 
short. The whiskey gave out first, of which the purser re- 
ported to the captain that there was but one week's full allow- 
ance on board, as some mistake had been made as to quantity 
before leaving Valparaiso. 

The captain ordered all hands to be called to muster, and 
then stated the case with regard to provisions, adding that 
whatever the privation might be before reaching Valparaiso, 
he hoped it would be borne patiently, and that each man 
should receive his money for short rations. " And now for 
the whiskey, my lads ; will you have the full allowance while 
it lasts, or half allowance that it may hold out the longer ?" 
They gave three cheers and chose the full allowance, and 
were then piped down. 

We now steered for Acapulco, but could not procure any 
provisions except a few skeleton bullocks. Our boats had 
become much worm-eaten, and we were obliged to remain here 
a week in order to re-plank them, aftei* which we sailed for 
Tumbez river, where the Spaniards first landed under Pi- 
zarro. In running in for the land, finding the water grew 



246 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

shallow, we anchored off the mouth of a wide river. The 
shore was well wooded, and a boat was sent to explore a 
short distance up. I was one of the party. As soon as we 
had entered the river, we discovered an Indian canoe about 
a mile from us. We gave chase, and as we were well armed, 
felt determined to find out something about it, as it was not 
definitely laid down on any of our charts. 

After a long chase we came up with the Indians. They 
had run their canoe ashore among some bushes, had all 
jumped out except one old squaw, who was so frightened 
that she trembled as though shivering with the cold, and 
by signs convinced her that we were friendly. We gave 
her some biscuits, and some meat ; the men had all run off 
and probably would not return while we were there. We as- 
certained from her that the name of the river was Chippeoivee, 
and that it ran a great distance into the interior, and that 
there was a large city far up. On our return we stopped at the 
entrance on the south side, and found some excellent timber, 
only it was very hard. We returned to the ship and reported 
the result of our cruise. Orders were now given to fit out a 
party of wood-cutters. I had orders also to cut lumber for 
ship's use, and timber for a new launch, which I was to build 
at Valparaiso. A gang of fifty men and officers went on 
shore next morning, fitted out with axes, saws, muskets, am- 
munition, and a scanty supply of provisions. We soon made 
the forest ring with the sound of the " woodman's axe ;" it 
was fine sport for the boys. In the mean time Mr. Pereival 
had been dispatched to find Tumbez river, and to ascertain 
if any supplies could be obtained there; we were also admon- 
ished that our fresh water was coming short. Wo finished 
our wood chopping in four days, and on the morning of the 
fifth, I took a cruise along the beach some way up the river, 
and in some places was obliged to wade out very far to clear 
the bushes, and while thus wading, with the water up to my 
hips, I felt occasionally something that appeared to be an 
oyst<T. On reaching down for it, sure enough it was an oys- 
ter, nearly nine inches long, and on going a few rods farther, 
came on to an oyster bed, took off my trowsers, tied up the 
ends and filled both legs full of as fine oysters as ever were 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 247 

seen. Returned to our encampment, when other parties 
started off and soon returned richly laden. Some of the 
boys had in their rambles, through the woods, discovered an 
extensive salt pond, which was certainly the whitest and best 
granulated salt that I had ever seen. The pond was nearly 
a mile in circumference. Next morning we went on shore 
to gather up, and while they were doing so, I took a boat 
with four men, and went up the river, and ran on to a point 
of land on the other side, of which was an opening. We 
shoved the boat in round the point and there before us, was a 
large basin over a mile in diameter, surrounded, or walled 
in with piles of sea-shells whale's ribs and vertebra. We 
soon ascertained that the tide was ebbing, and as it began 
to leave the beach, discovered that it was one vast oyster 
bed, and in less than two hours the tide had all gone out, 
and the sight was beyond description. Here were oysters- 
eight and nine inches long, and millions of bushels of them. 
We gathered a quantity in the boat, and when the water 
would permit, returned to the ship, with the news of our dis- 
covery. Next day, half the ship's company and officers had 
a picnic on this immense oyster bed. Large fires were kin- 
dled all over the place, and roasted oysters were the order of 
the day, and on the folloiving day the other half went on 
shore : so we all had a good tuck out of oysters. Mr. Perci- 
val had succeeded in finding Tumbez, but could not obtain 
anything eatable except oranges. He arrived however, rath- 
er too late for the great oyster supper. 

We sailed from this place for Payta, but could get nei- 
ther provisions nor water there, so we sailed again for Val- 
paraiso, as there was no prospect of getting supplies until we 
reached there. After the whiskey was gone, our ship appeared 
like a heaven, compared to what she had usually been before. 
There were always some poor fellows in the brig * and the 
cause of their confinement in almost every case was whiskey, 
and as often as twice a week all hands were called to witness 
punishment, at which time the prisoners were brought up, 

* The place of confinement near the galley and under the charge of a 
sentinel. 



248 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and received, according to the nature of the crime, as many 
lashes as the captain thought proper to inflict. But now all 
is hushed, no quarrelling on the berth deck after the ham- 
mocks are piped down, not a man flogged for missing his 
muster, the lion had become the lamb. No insolence to offi- 
cers, the metamorphosis was complete. It needed to be wit- 
nessed in order to be appreciated, and the effect of this acci- 
dental, though fortunate privation, was more visibly mani- 
fested in one unfortunate young man, than upon any other 
that came immediately under my notice. He was the eldest 
son of a highly respectable clergyman, who had preached for 
many years in a town near Boston. William N — — n had 
been educated at college and had studied for the ministry ; 
he became addicted to ardent spirits, and it grew npon him 
so rapidly that he was soon known as a drunkard. 

His repeated intoxication truly brought the gray hairs of 
his too indulgent father, with sorrow to the grave. William, 
now an abandoned inebriate, went off, entered the United 
States service, as a mariner, (sea soldier) and commenced 
his first term of service on board the Macedonian. It hap- 
pened that he hung his hammock, or his number was near 
my state-room door, on the berth deck. I had not been long 
on board the ship, before I became acquainted with his his- 
tory, and was somewhat acquainted with his venerable father, 
and his younger brother. Many a time have I sat by his 
side, while he was raving drunk, and even when his brains 
were fairly soaked in whiskey, his language was beautiful ; 
and when he had become sober, would bitterly lament his 
thirst for rum. He would sob and cry like a child. 1 have 
seen an officer, as a punishment, turn down the throat of 
this poor fellow, a half pint of lamp oil. He had been 
whipped at the gangway, kicked and knocked about like a 
dog, but all to no purpose. Whiskey had usurped the in- 
tellectual empire, and what might have been a brilliant mind, 
was doomed to be a blank. • 

William X n was now clothed and in his right mind : his 

conversation showed deep contrition. But alas! it was only 
for a short time. The evil spirit had truly left him walking 
through dry places, seeking rest, and finding none. His 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 249 

mind had "become swept and garnished, only for a brief in- 
terval. Very soon seven other spirits more wicked than the 
first, were to enter, and the last state of this man, may be 
worse than the first. I employed every argument in my pow- 
er, to dissuade him from drinking any more whiskey when it 
should again be served as a ration — but he was too far gone 
to give it up now; he had been disgraced, publicly whipped, 
and now what had he to live for. Poor young man ! Reader, 
this is no fiction, and if you are a grog drinker, your end 
may be like his. There were many more individual cases, 
where men who were before quarrelsome and insolent, now 
became really amiable, and I do not believe a more wonder- 
ful change was ever made anions the same number of men 
in so short a time, as was wrought among the creAv of the 
Macedonian, for the ninety-two days in which there was no 
whiskey. And in addition to this, we were on a short al- 
lowance of beef, pork, and bread. The latter had become 
wormy and scarcely fit for food ; the peas, flour, and rice, 
were all expended, our water was short, and we were on an 
allowance of five pints for twenty-four hours. 

We were fortunate enough one day during a heavy thun- 
der storm, to catch a quantity of rain-water, from which wo 
all had a good drink, and then filled up our breakers. While 
I was at work on board the Two Catherines, at San Bias, it 
rained in showers every day, but not minding it, as I was 
anxious to finish the mast, and as the weather was warm, 
had no fear of being injured by it, so kept wet throughout 
the day. At the wooding place, I exposed myself very im- 
prudently wading about in the water, iu assisting to get my 
timber on board. The day after leaving Payta, I was tak- 
en quite ill, and reported myself to the doctor, who gave me 
a dose of something, which was to be taken in a quart of 
warm water. I had hardly swallowed this nauseous draught, 
when I became delirious, and entirely prostrated, raving like 
a madman, but my messmates .were by me, and kindly ad- 
ministered to my wants. My delirium finally abated, and 
was succeeded by a high fever that in a few days termina- 
ted in severe ao'ue-fits, or fever and ao-ue. The disease soon 
reduced me very low ; I suffered much for want of water ; 



250 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

what I drank was so warm that it would not remain upon 
my stomach. The disease had so reduced me that it became 
necessary to have a man at my side, night and day. I was 
removed to the gun-deck, where there was a greater circu- 
lation of air. Near by me was a man who was taken down 
about as I was. He lingered a few days, and then died. 
Mr. Johnson, lieutenant of marines, also died with fever ; 
he came to see me only a few days before he expired. Next 
our chaplain, Mr. Wilson, was taken down and died ; like- 
wise several seamen were taken off by this epidemic. 

When a seaman died at night in the sick bay, early in the 
morning he was brought out and laid upon a grating, nearly 
under my hammock, so that frequently the first thing when 
I awoke, was to look under my hammock to see if there 
was a dead body there. I began slowly to recover but was 
so much reduced, it was some time, before I had gained 
sufficient strength to walk. During my convalescence I had 
a craving appetite, and nothing to satisfy it with, and when 
I had recovered sufficient strength, went about preparing to 
build the large boat before alluded to, as I was aware that 
our stay would be short at Valparaiso, and that the boat 
must be built during the time we remained there, whether 
it be long or short, I did everything in my power to re- 
gain my health, used much exercise, rubbing myself freely, 
either with a brush, or piece of canvas, bathing every morn- 
ing, which by so doing, I gained strength very fast, and 
before we arrived at Valparaiso, had nearly recovered. 

We had been absent about eight months, when our an- 
chor was let go again abreast the old fort at Valparaiso. 
Our happy ship was now to be turned into a hell. The an- 
chor was hardly down, before the purser was on shore mak- 
ing arrangements for provisioning the ship. Whiskey was 
the first article sent on board : then came beef, vegetables, 
and bread. The whiskey rations of half a pint to a man, 
was immediately served out ; this, together with what was 
bought from the bomb boats by the men, occasioned a scene at 
night that is beyond description. I was aware of all this 
before we arrived, and tried to caution those that I knew 
would sway away again as soon as they could get it. Among 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 251 

these was my friend, the marine, William N n, who, he- 
fore eight o'clock, P. M., was blind drunk, and stowed away 
among the hags. Yelling and fighting was now the order 
of the night, as there was scarcely a sober man in the ship. 
The old master-at-arms was drunk among the rest, and be- 
fore morning, twenty-three were in double irons for fight- 
ing, and insolence to officers. I made out in the tumult, 
to get a good supper, and think I ate as much at that meal, 
as would ordinarily serve me for three. 



CHAPTER XI. 

Plenty of news, — False report concerning Capt. Downes, — Refit the 
ship, — I build a launch, — Trouble with my men, — They get drunk, — 
Mystery how they obtain their liquor, — Discovery, — Strange milk fron 
a girl, — She is forbidden to come again, — Affair between Weerns and 
an American captain, — Cowskinning, — Affair between an English captain 
and one of our lieutenants, — Duel, — Broken arm, — Arrival of part of 
the Essex, — Whaler's crew, — Dreadful condition, — Boat nearly finish- 
ed, — Unfeeling conduct of the midshipman who shot Abercrombie. — 
All ready for sea, — Sail for Callao, — Arrive off San Lorenzo, — Inde- 
pentia discovered, — Cochrane's fleet under way, — Beat to quarters 
all ready, — Ship standing for us — Back out. — Maintop-sail, — Boarded, — 
Communication from his lordship, — Fill away, — Along-side the Ad- 
miral, — Mutual courtesy, — Pass on, — Excitement at Callao, — An- 
chor, — Esmaralda and gun boats, — Rejoicing among the American 
ships, — Declaration of Cochrane, — Noble conduct of Capt. Downes, — 
Receive a letter of censure from Cochrane, — Capt. Downe's reply, — 
Our ship's position, — Accident to myself, — Confined to my cot. — 
Danger of bleeding to death, — Wound heals, — Suspicious movement 
of the blockading squadron, — They approach towards the forts, who 
open fire upon them, — We prepare for an emergency, — Capt. Downes 
at Lima, — Attack on the Esmaralda, — Our position, — Exposed to the 
fire of all the batteries, — Success of Cochrane, — Esmaralda cut out, — 
Great loss of life, — Melancholy murder of our boat's crew, by the sol- 
diers, — Escape o? one man with the boat. 

T\ t e had an abundance of news to hear, and a large amount 
of work to do. The first item of news that required atten- 
tion was. that it was currently reported at Valparaiso, the 
reason that the Macedonian did not go into Callao on her 
cruise down the Coast was. that Lord Cochrane had forbidden 
her entering past the blockade. When this report reached 
the ear of Capt. Downes, as a matter of course, he felt quite 
indignant at such a base fabrication. But now the Mace- 
donian was bound to go into Callao. anyhow. My boat timber 
was sent on shore, together with the armorer's forge, and the 
two blacksmiths. I took four carpenters with me. as they 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 253 

were the only men in the carpenter's crew that could handle 
tools well enough to work on a boat. I commenced richt 
away in good earnest, as I was told that I could have but 
eighteen days in which to build her. She was thirty-three 
feet long and eight feet broad. We had a tent erected, and 
everything on shore that was wanted. The frigate lay very 
near us, so that going and coming occupied but little time. 
The first two or three days we got along very well. One 
day after dinner I found both the armorer, and his mate, 
drunk, under the forge. Where they got their rum from, I 
could not imagine. I roused them out, and gave the armor- 
er a blowing up, as he is considered a petty officer and had no 
right to get drunk. He promised not to do it again if I 
would say nothing about it on board the ship. 

Soon after I began to suspect the carpenters, I was under 
very strong apprehensions that they had some method of get- 
ting liquor unknown to me. They were sometimes stupid be- 
fore nine o'clock A. M., and several times quite drunk in the 
afternoon, and often went on board the ship in that condition 
at sundown. I assured Mr. Maury, that I was unable to 
tell how they could get anything to get drunk on, as they 
were not out of my sight a moment through the day, neither 
did any one converse with them. Now, here was a mystery, 
and a very unpleasant one for me, as I was obliged to work 
like a slave, to get the boat off in time ; and if they got 
drunk, it would of course throw more work upon me. The 
mystery however was soon solved, much to my relief. 

Since we had been at work on shore, we left the ship soon 
after daylight, and took bread and milk for breakfast. The 
milk was brought by a very pretty Spanish girl, who came to 
the corner of the fort, and put her face out, and in a 
shrill, musical voice cried out, " Leche," " Leche," (milk, 
milk.) The sea was high up against the wall of the fort, so 
that she could not advance any nearer. One of the men 
would take two tin pots, and go for the milk. And surely 
there could not be rum in the milk, for I drank of it myself. 
But the dear little creature, apparently so innocent, was up to 
a thing or two. Now for the denouement — a midshipman 
on board the frigate who happened to have a spy-glass in his 



254 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

hand, was looking towards the place where the milk girl came, 
he saw her turn out the milk, and then take from her bosom 
two parcels which he thought were bladders of rum, this was 
good news for me. He related it soon after I came on board. 
As soon as I got on shore next morning, I told the men of the 
discovery ; that I should forbid the girl coming any more 
with milk, particularly of that kind that came from her 
bosom. She came as usual at eight o'clock, "Leche." O, 
you little jade" said I, as soon as I was near enough to be 
heard by her. I had taken the pots for the milk, and when 
she had turned it out, I reached my hand for the blad- 
ders which she took out and handed me, each contained a 
pint of agua diente. I returned them, and forbade her com- 
ing with anything more for these men. I gave them the pots, 
telling them this was to be their last milk breakfast while they 
were at work on the boat. They were very sulky all that 
day, but went on board the ship sober, and continued so 
until we left the beach. 

I observed, that on our arrival, we had much matter in the 
shape of news to listen to ; so we will leave the boat and hear 
the gossip. You know we left Midshipman Weems at Val- 
paraiso, upon the sick list, when we sailed from there about 
eight months since. He very soon recovered his health, and 
grew quite stout, and was a fine looking young man, and very 
gentlemanly in his deportment. Some six weeks before our 
arrival, the Boston ship P— t arrived from China. The Capt. 
H — 1, being a very proud man, had bat few associates besides 
those with whom he had business. A social ball was given 
by the American residents to which Capt. H — 1 and Weems 
were invited ; the ball was well attended, the governor and 
many of the first families in town being present. Mr. Weems 
and Capt. II — 1, were quite intimate during the evening, con- 
versing freely about the Macedonian, and the result of her 
entering Callao through the blockade, and on other topics of 
this nature. Next day, while Weems was walking out in 
undress uniform, having on a white jacket and white panta- 
loons, making a very neat appearance however, he met 
Capt. II— 1. 

" Good morning, sir," said Weems, the other appearing 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 255 

not to recognize him. Weems very modestly observed, "I 
had the pleasure of an introduction to you last evening, at 
Madam Blanco's." 

" I don't know you, sir," and passed along. 

This was too much for Weems. To be cut in this disrespect- 
ful and unceremonious manner was more than his proud 
spirit could bear. So he just observed, with some considerable 
emphasis, (I omit the oath,) " You shall know me," so turn- 
ing immediately back and following hard after the captain, 
stepped into a store and purchased a Spanish cowhide ; walk- 
ing briskly, scon overtook Capt. H — 1, who had then reached 
the busiest part of the town. He stepped up to him : 

"You don't know me, sir, do you? My name is Rolla 
Weems, of the United States Navy," and fetching him several 
cuts across the shoulders, at the same time remarked : " I think 
you will know me after this." Capt. H — 1 attempted to 
clench Weems, but did not succeed. The people gathered 
round enjoying the fun, as cowhiding is generally a funny 
affair. H — 1 made but little resistance, although much 
mortified, and evidently much humbled. Weems. was well 
known, and much respected, and when the matter was ex- 
plained, the general sentiment was, that H — 1 had received 
no more than he deserved. 

Weems then made an honorable proposition to him, that he 
stood ready for any alternative that he might choose, whether 
by a mutual apology or with any kind of weapon, it was quite 
immaterial to him. By the interposition of friends, this affair 
was mutually adjusted and both were subsequently on good 
terms. 

Sometimes it is necessary to bring John Bull up all stand- 
ing. One of our lieutenants, an active and intelligent young 
officer, stepped into a hotel one very warm afternoon, and 
called for an ice lemonade, went into an adjoining room and 
sat down. The drink was brought to him, but before he had 
tasted it, he heard loud words between the bar keeper and 
another. He overheard expressions which he thought applied 
to himself, and somewhat of a derogatory character. He went 
into the room to ascertain the nature of the difficulty, when 
he was grossly insulted by a tall, raw-boned Englishman, who 



256 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

it subsequently appeared was captain of an English whaler. 
He accused Lieut. T — - of requiring the bar keeper to wait 
upon him first, thus claiming the precedence on the score of 
his being a naval officer. Lieut. T — in a very mild and 
gentlemanly manner, assured him that he labored under a 
mistake, as he only ordered his lemonade, and immediately 
retired to the next room. The bar keeper alone was re- 
sponsible for the supposed mistake. This explanation was not 
at all satisfactory to Mr. Bull, who commenced another volley 
of vituperation, ending with this most insulting remark : " It's 
that swab upon your shoulder that protects you." 

This was more than Lieut. T — could stand. And however 
unofficerlike and imprudent the act was, and moved by an 
irresistible impulse, he threw off his coat, and demanded of 
the landlord a pair of horse pistols that lie on the shelf, and 
that were loaded with balls. 

" And now, sir," turning to the Englishman, " the obstacle 
is removed, and if you are a gentleman, take one of these 
pistols, choose your friend, and come with me to the beach." 

By this time several persons had collected, and hearing the 
altercation remained as spectators. The Englishman finding 
that he could not well back out, with evident reluctance ac- 
cepted the challenge, took his companion, and T — took an 
acquaintance who happened to come in, all of whom proceed- 
ed to the beach, about two hundred yards distant. Arrange- 
ments were soon made, and the English captain had the first 
fire and missed. T — deliberately raised his pistol and fired, 
the ball struck the captain's right arm just above the elbow, 
and broke the bone short off. The parties then returned to 
the hotel. A surgeon was called and the difficulty amicably 
settled. The " broken- winged captain," subsequently made 
several visits on board the frigate, as a guest of Lieut. T — . 

While lying at Valparaiso this time, a ship arrived that 
had picked up one of the boats of the ill-fated whale ship, 
Essex, that had been struck by a whale, her bows stove in 
when she almost instantly sunk. The crew at the time were 
all off in their boats, busily at work among a school of sperm 
whales, leaving only the ship keeper on board. The crews in 
the several boats, had but a small portion of provision, with 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 257 

some fresh water in their boats. I believe subsequent ac- 
counts stated that the remains of dead bodies had been found 
on an uninhabited and desolate island, which were thought to 
be part of the Essex's crew. 

The boat that was picked up, I think, had three living men 
having protracted their miserable existence by eating the 
dead bodies of their companions, who died in the boat. I 
saw them after they had landed, and truly they presented 
a shocking appearance. They were well taken care of and 
drew much sympathy from the benevolent people of Valpa- 
raiso. 

As we have now told you all the news, we return to our 
boat again. We have but one week longer in which to finish 
our job. The frigate is nearly ready, having her provisions 
and water on board, and very little to do to the ship. I can- 
not help noticing a circumstance, though trifling as it may 
appear, yet goes to show how thoroughly a heart may be 
steeled against the smallest feeling of humanity, and wholly 
void of any restraining principle. 

G — n who shot A — e, only a few months since, and whose 
grave is near by where we are at work, frequently comes to 
this place, practising with his pistol, at a target placed almost 
dirsctly over the grave of his murdered victim. The target 
being the size of a man, and he aiming at the heart. I think 
I have never seen a human being that I more heartily de- 
spised and for whom I had a greater contempt, than this man. 
lie was neither a seaman nor a navigator, and yet he preten- 
ded to excel in both these branches. I had occasion to tell 
him one evening, that he knew nothing. He began to " bristle 
up," but soon found that he had hold of the wrong customer. 

Our sailing day came, we had everything on board, weighed 
our anchor, and were now to let Lord Cochrane know that the 
Macedonian must enter Callao, blockade, or no blockade. 

In getting our anchor we had some little delay in conse- 
quence of breaking and rendering useless our spar-deck cap- 
stan. 

On arriving off St. Lorenzo, we soon saw that in all proba- 
bility there would be an attempt made by Cochrane to stop us. 
A ship was now standing out under full sail, evidently 

Q 



258 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

having been sent by the admiral to forbid our proceeding any 
further. The whole blockading fleet were now under way 
and they also were coming towards us. 

We beat to quarters, had all bulk heads down, deck sanded, 
guns double shotted, and matches lit ; the first ship was now 
up with us, the captain stepped into the gangway to hail us, 
and as we had considerable way on the ship, Capt. Downes, 
very politely backed his maintop-sail to give the other an 
opportunity of making any communication from his Lordship 
that he desired. He also backed his mainvard. lowered a 
boat and sent an officer on board our ship, with a verbal re- 
quest from Lord Cochrane that Capt. Downes would not per- 
sist in violating the blockade. When this officer got upon ou* 
deck and saw this preparation, he actually turned pale. Our 
captain's reply was, " Please communicate to his Lordship that 
it is my intention to anchor in Callao harbor before sundown 
at all hazards ; and if his Lordship has any further communi- 
cations to make, he must be quick about it. Fill away the 
maintop-sail, sir." 

The Chilian officer went into his boat, his ship, (Indepen- 
tia, 22 guns,) was now quite near us, so that we could easily 
perceive that they kept their guns trained upon us, and we, 
of course, kept ours upon them. I am sure that we could 
have blown them out of water in a very few minutes. 

We were now going ahead at a pretty good rate, and very 
soon were surrounded by the whole squadron. The O'Hig- 
gins,* Cochrane's ship, was close along-side of us, within half 
pistol shot. Lord Cochrane came to the gangway, and in a 
pompous tone, hailed : 

"What ship is that?" 

" This is the U. S. Frigate, Macedonian." 

" How r does Capt. Downes do?" 

" Quite well, I thank you. How is your Lordship?" 

We had now passed the O'lliggins, and were nearly along- 
side the Lotaro, a 50 gun ship, under the command of Capt. 
Guise, he however said nothing to us. We perceived the spy- 
glasses on board Cochrane's ship were busily employed in 

*A 44 gun frigate taken from the Peruvians in the early part of the war. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 259 

reconnoitering us ; we really expected a brush, and so did the 
inhabitants and soldiers at Callao ; for as we approached the 
town, we discerned that the forts and house tops were lined 
and crowded with people. Had Cochrane opposed our en- 
trance, it is very certain that with the excited feelino-s of 
our crew, we should have persisted in the attempt, while 
there remained a man to load a gun. Our arrival was a 
matter of rejoicing among the merchant ships ; Cochrane hud 
publicly declared that not a ship should leave Callao with a 
Spanish dollar on board ; and there were many ships, both 
English and American, lying here, and all of which had 
large sums on board, and felt much anxiety on account of 
Cochrane's threat. 

Cap. Downes received much credit and many compliments 
for his determination and perseverance in running through 
the blockade, and safely effecting an anchorage at Callao. 
Lord Cochrane, well knowing the determined character of 
Capt, Downes, and the efficiency of the Macedonian and her 
crew, (for he had been on board at Valparaiso) that notwith- 
standing the great superiority in number of ships and men, 
an action with her might, and most certainly would, retard 
his contemplated attack on the Esmaralda, besides the de- 
served retribution that would fall upon him, as soon as the 
attack should be made known in the United States. 

All these things he very probably took into consideration, 
and did not resist us. Early on the morning after our an- 
chorage, Capt. Downes received rather a tart note from his 
Lordship, severely censuring him for violating a regular con- 
stituted blockade. Capt. Downes, in reply, assurecf his Lord- 
ship that he should remain at Callao until all the American 
merchant ships had sailed ; he also should protect them until 
out of danger, and should keep the Macedonian in a con- 
tinued state of preparation, to repel any undue attack which 
might be made upon her, and declined any further commu- 
nication, as it might have a tendency to vitiate his neutrality, 
and compromise the United States. 

Our ship was moored close in with the shore, and abreast 

* There had been a report among the ships at Callao, that Lord 
Cochrane had declared it as his determination to destroy the Macedonian, 
snould she attempt to violate the blockade. 



260 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of a hot shot battery, a short distance astern the Peruvian 
frigate Esmaralda, of 44 guns, who was taking specie on 
board for the mother country. Between our ship and the 
Esmaralda were two Spanish gunboats, well manned and 
armed, as a protection against any attack which might be 
made on the Esmaralda. 

I must here record an accident that befel me, and that came 
near using me up. While we were beating to quarters, pre- 
vious to entering Callao, I had occasion to make a cleat for 
the security of one of the boats. I was amidships, on the 
gun-deck, and was working with a carpenter's adze ; had 
just made a blow, when the man who was loading the gun 
near to me, hit my arm with the sponge, which caused me 
to receive the blow on my instep, severing the cords leading 
to the toes, besides making a fearful gash. I had the pres- 
ence of mind to grasp my leg just above the wound, and 
thus prevent the blood from flowing so rapidly, as it otherwise 
would have done. I was taken below and laid upon the 
table, which was already prepared for cutting off legs and 
arms, should Cochrane have resisted us. I suffered the most 
excruciating pain while the doctors were getting the ends of 
the cords together, and tying them up ; they were afraid that 
I should bleed to death while under the operation, and the 
way I sung out was a caution to doctors. The wound was 
dressed, I was put into a cot, and lay there eleven days and 
nights, in much suffering. During this time, the wound 
broke out afresh, and it was with much difhcultv that the 
doctor succeeded in stopping it, and assured me that if it 
broke out again, he feared that it would be impossible to save 
my life ; the nature of the wound being such as to make it 
extremely difficult to stop the arteries. But through the 
goodness of God, it healed, and 1 was not, as 1 feared I 
should be, deprived of the free action of my foot. 

While sitting on deck, one Sunday, I think on the 4th of 
November, I observed the blockading squadron get under 
way from under St. Lorenzo, where they usually lay, and 
come towards the anchorage at Callao. When they had ap- 
proached to nearly within gunshot of the forts, the latter 
bpgan to blaze away at the ships, which was a foolish movf> 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 261 

on the part of the Spaniards, for it gave Cochrane an excel- 
lent opportunity of measuring his distance, which was to be 
as near the Esmaralda as possible, and at the same time be 
clear of the shot from the forts. The ships anchored in a 
safe position, but did not furl their sails. 

I was now fully assured, in my own mind, that there was 
something in the wind, and some decisive step soon to be 
taken. Was it the capture of the Macedonian for running 
the blockade ? Or the merchant ships, on board of which were 
large sums in dollars and in virgin silver ? The forts were 
thronged with men, and bayonets olistenino- in the sun, the hot 
shot batteries along the beach all manned. We also adopted 
precautionary steps, in case anything should happen, which 
was to place the launch under the bow, with a stream an- 
chor and cable, in case we should have to slip our chains. 
Capt. Downes was at Lima, and several of our officers on 
shore ; the latter, however, came on board at sundown. Two 
of the lieutenants of the Esmaralda had dined on board our 
ship, and at 9 P. M., just as I had turned in to my ham- 
mock, which hung over the pumps on the gun-deck, heard 
them bid good night, and go on board their own ship. 

I soon fell asleep, and think in less than half an hour 
was awoke by a tremendous noise. I jumped from my ham- 
mock as well as I could with my lame foot, noticing that 
our ship was in great commotion. 

I looked out of the gun-deck ports, and saw the Esmaral- 
da, apparently on fire, caused by an incessant blaze of 
musketry. She was very near us ; we could distinctly hear 
every order that was given. " Cut away anything but 
sheets and halliards." " Let fall the top-sails, bear a hand 
there aloft, Britons. Here's a half a dozen Spaniards in the 

tops, sir, what will we do with J em ?" " Heave the 

rascals overboard," says some one on deck. " Hurrah, my 
hearties ! she is ours. Jump into the boats, Britons ! Get out 
a towline." During this time, we could see the fight on 
the gun-deck, while Cochrane had charge of the spar-deck, 
and it was he that cut the chain cables. 

The forts were pouring their shot all around us, and many 
of them red-hot. There was a hot shot battery right abreast 



llM 




AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 26 



o 



of our ship, on the beach. Oasas-Matas, a tremendous cas- 
tle, with over three hundred and sixty guns, were blazing 
away. The shot flew round us like hail, cutting away our 
cross-jack yard, and much of our rigging. Many of the red- 
hot shot struck very near us, and it was astonishing how far 
they could he seen while sinking. The firing during this 
time, was tremendous, like one continued peal of thunder, 
The musketry did us but little harm, the bullets just striking 
the side, and falling harmless in the water. There was not 
a breath of wind, and here we were, having slipped our 
chains, but dare not attempt to run out our stream anchor, 
for the very moment we should attempt to do this, our boat 
would be cut to pieces with the shot from the shore, for they 
were under the impression all this time, that we were assist- 
ing Cochrane. 

In the meantime, they had towed the Esmaralda out clear 
of the shot. They then threw over the dead bodies, and haul- 
ed her along-side the O'Higgins, sent all the wounded ashore 
in their own boats, in charge of their own officers. 

I shall never forget the impressions of the dawning morn- 
ing, as the sailors call it. A cloud of powder and smoke lay 
all around like a dense fog; through it we could just dis- 
cern the fleet with their valuable prize, and midway between 
them and the shore, were two gun-boats adrift, every soul 
belonging to them had been killed. 

Here we lay, having drifted a half a mile from our an- 
chors, and now hanging by a stream anchor. The English 
frigate Hyperion, that came in a few days before, lay quietly 
at anchor, having been, during the time out of reach of the 
shot, and as the sun rose, everything had a blood-like ap- 
pearance ; the sun himself looked like a huge ball of ray less 
fire. 

Captain Downes at this time was at Lima ; we were ig- 
norant of his fate. 

We had hitherto depended upon the shore for provisions, 
and a consultation of the officers was held to consider the ex- 
pediency of sending the market boat to the landing, for our 
beef and vegetables ; and it was their unanimous opinion, 
that there would be no impropriety in doing so. Accordingly a 



264 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

boat was called away, and the purser's steward, steerage and 
wardroom stewards, with a midshipman and ten men, com- 
posing the crew, went into the boat, but with downcast 
looks. 

Mr. Smull, the purser's steward, observed when going into 
the boat, " Well, I am now going to my grave I " and, poor 
fellow, it was too true. When they had taken their seats 
and had shoved off, they looked as if a dreadful forebod- 
ing of their approaching death hung over them. Not a 
word was spoken ; they pulled slowly along as though going 
to their own funeral, until they had reached within the boat's 
length of the steps. The bowman had tossed his oar, and 
almost instantly all but four were shot dead. The soldiers, 
seeing them coming kept hidden behind a wall, until they 
were near enough for good aim, and then fired. The purs- 
er's steward being only wounded, jumped overboard, when a 
soldier immediately got into the boat and drove a bayonet 
through his body, while he hung on to the boat's stern, ask- 
ing for mercy. Mr. Marshall, the midshipman, in order to 
escape the bayonet of a soldier, jumped overboard also,^and 
tried to drown himself by keeping under the bottom of the 
boat ; not being able to remain there, came up, and was 
struck on the head with the but-end of a musket, but was 
rescued from death by a Spanish officer, who took him in 
charge and conveyed him to the hospital. Another man 
was shot through the body, but w T as not killed, he also, was 
taken to the hospital. 

The only survivor w r ho remained in bottom of the boat, as 
if dead, after she had drifted off some distance, arose, 
and with an oar, got off from the shore and was picked up 
by a boat from the Hyperion, who took our boat in tow, and 
brought her along-side our frigate ; and what a sight did 
this boat present ! Blood and brains scattered round upon 
the inside as though a bullock had been killed in her. The 
bodies had been taken out by the Spaniards, probably for 
the purpose of getting their clothes. 



CHAPTER XII. 

Boat rescued by a boat from the Hyperion, — Is brought along-side the 
frigate, — Horrid sight, — Some taken to the hospital, — Their danger of 
being murdered, — Erroneous impression, — Manner of their rescue, — 
Fugitives escape to our ship, — Their dreadful narrative, — Danger of 
Capt. Downes, — Reward offered for his head, — Secreted by the Viceroy, 
— Our unpleasant and unsafe position, — Awful suspense respecting our 
captain and the midshipman on shore, — Sinking the schooner Rampart, 
of Baltimore, — Escape of captain and crew, — Big Dick, — Send a flag 
of truce, — Result, — Conversation, — Midshipman Marshall and the 
wounded men, — Brought off, — Mistake regretted, — Permission to visit 
the shore,— Obtain necessaries, — Permission to haul the ship back to 
the old position, — Intelligence of the captain by an Indian, — Boats 
fitted, — Proceed to Chorillias, — Captain returns in safety,— Is cheered, — 
Receives the congratulations of the Americans, — A general regret among 
the Peruvians, — Ascertain that there are a number of Americans pris- 
oners at Casas-Matas, — Capt. Downes demands them, — Permission to 
visit them, — Their miserable condition, — Contribution made for them, 
— Supplied with every comfort, — Promised their liberty in 90 days, — 
Removed to more comfortable quarters, — Had endured much suffering, 
— Joy at the prospect of being once more at liberty, — Fears of the 
Viceroy, — Large amount of specie on board the merchant ships, — 
Method of getting money on board merchant ships, — An American ship 
captured by Cochrane, — Came in to Guamas, — Fleet get ready to sail, — 
Cochrane's threats, — Order of sailing, — Ordered not to admit a boat 
along-side, — Arrangement of the English frigate Hyperion, — Beat to 
quarters, — Fleet sail, — Attempt to stop the ships, — Get out safe, and 
return to Guamas, — Account of the capture of the Esmaralda. 

Those that were taken to the hospital, were in danger of 
being murdered while in their beds. There were many of the 
crew of the Esmaralda here, that were wounded in the fight, 
and were sent on shore by Cochrane, the morning after the 
capture. These desperate wretches, full of the impression 
that our ship was accessory to the capture, fairly gnashed 
their teeth with rage against our poor fellows that were so 
fortunately rescued from death ; and made several unsuc- 
cessful attempts to get at them, in order to murder them. 

I should have stated that Mr. Marshall, and the other man 



266 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

who was shot through the body, were rescued from the hands 
of the infuriated soldiers, by a kind-hearted Spanish officer, 
who, with much difficulty succeeded in getting them to the 
hospital. 

Our ship was now thronged with fugitives from the shore, 
who were principally Englishmen, but there were some Amer- 
icans among them, all of whom gave a horrid account of the 
slaughter on the night of the battle. 

Gangs of armed and desperate soldiers perambulated the 
town, shooting down every foreigner they could find. One 
man told us of his narrow escape, as follows : 

" Himself and his shipmate were sitting in a grogshop, 
and when the soldiers passed by, they looked in, and seeing 
these men, were about to shoot them, but the landlord for- 
bade them firing in his premises, and told the men they 
must run for their lives, which they did. We both made a 
rush through them, and ran for the landing-place. I turned 
short round, and got among some old casks, and crawled into 
an empty hogshead. My poor shipmate was overtaken, and 
I saw them cut his throat from ear to ear. I now began to 
shiver in the wind, for I expected they would look for me, 
which, had they done, w T ould certainly have found me, and 
w r ould soon have dispatched old ' Jim Carrol/ " 

It was well known on shore that Capt. Downes was at Lima ; 
parties were sent to search for him ; a reward was offered 
for his head. Capt. Downes was soon made acquainted with 
these facts, and immediately sought the protection of the 
Viceroy, as he did not think himself safe at the house of the 
American minister. 

The Viceroy was fully convinced that the Macedonian had 
no sort of participation in the Esmaralda affair ; and know- 
ing the excited state of feeling that prevailed, particularly 
among the lower class, and fearing that if it should be 
known that Capt. Downes was in the palace, a mob might 
collect, and thus create a tumult which nothing hut the spill- 
ing of blood could allay. He therefore had him secretly 
conveyed to the mint, where he was comfortably provided for. 

Tin? Macedonian lay some distance from her former moor- 
ings, and was not in a safe place, if it should come on to 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 2G7 

blow. Here we were, without provisions, and in a, state 
of the utmost anxiety with regard to our captain, and the 
midshipman and two men that were on shore. We dared 
not yet venture to communicate with the shore, for only 
a few hours since, an American schooner, Rampart, of Balti- 
more, that had been chartered by a Spanish house, at Lima, 
attempted to enter the mole in order to receive her cargo. 
The American ensign was flying at her mast-head, and just as 
she was rounding the pier-head, the batteries opened upon 
her, shot away the head of her foremast, and sunk her. 

The crew had barely time to escape with their lives, and 
among them was the celebrated " Big Dick," a gigantic and 
most powerful negro, who reached the frigate in a very 
small boat. This was done in the short space of an hour. 

Big Dick had a narrow chance for his life ; for just as he 
had stepped into the boat, with his hand still upon the schoon- 
er's rail, a shot cut off the piece where his hand was, passed 
within a few inches of his head, and nearly knocked the 
breath out of him. 

In this state of uncertainty, our first lieutenant concluded 
to try what efficacy there might be in a flag of truce. Ac- 
cordingly, on the fourth day, a boat was prepared with an 
American flag at the stern, a white flag forward ; a lieuten- 
ant and a midshipman, and the boats crew all neatly dressed. 
The officer of the boat had received orders to proceed towards 
the captain of the port's office, and to lie on his oars, out of 
the reach of a musket shot, and there remain one hour. And 
if, in that time no official notice was taken of the flag, to re- 
turn to the frigate ; but, should the captain of the port, or 
master of marine, or any one having authority to communi- 
cate, come off, then put the following interrogatories, (which 
were in writing,) and note the answers with your pencil : 

" Do you know any thing of Capt. Downes?" 

"What is the condition of our wounded men, who were taken 
to the hospital ? " 

" Can we obtain our provisions from the shore ? " 

" Can we haul up to our old moorings? " 

According to orders, the boat proceeded to her peace, and 



268 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

had hardly hauled in their oars, when a boat was seen com- 
ing off to them, with a huge Spanish ensign at the stern. 

When within talking distance, an officer who was in a rich 
uniform, arose, and in a very polite manner, took off his 
chapeau, and enquired what was wanting, through the in- 
terpreter. The interrogatories were put in the order in 
which they were written. The answer to the first was as fol- 
lows : 

" I believe Capt. Downes is at Lima. We do not know 
that any harm has been done to him." 

To the second, — "I do not know anything about them, 
but presume that they are well taken care of." 

To the third, — "I cannot imagine any difficulty in ob- 
taining what you wish from the shore." 

And to the fourth, — "I will proceed to the office of the 
intendent and ascertain, and if you please to accompany 
me, you can have all .the particulars very soon." 

The officer declined doing this, as it would be contrary to 
his orders : but replied to the Spanish officer that he would re- 
turn to the Macedonian, and report what had already passed 
and would probably be at the same place to-morrow at nine 
o'clock, A. M. Accordingly, on the morrow, the boat with the 
same officers and crew proceeded to the place, but with addi- 
tional orders that the permits should be given in writing, as 
nothing verbal would be considered official. 

When our boat had arrived at the appointed place, the 
captain of the port came immediately off, bringing Mr. 
Marshall, and Jacob Bull, the seaman who had been shot 
through the body. The captain of the port very much re- 
gretted the unfortunate mistake, as all were now fully satis- 
fied that the Macedonian was perfectly neutral in the affair 
of the Esmaralda. The port admiral had instructed him to 
say, that the Macedonian had full permission to return to 
her former mooring, and also declared with much vehemence, 
that the officers of the Macedonian could visit the shore with- 
out the slightest fear of molestation, and that our market 
boat could also come to the landing-place in perfect safety. 
The officer of our boat very politely acknowledged the 
courtesy of the captain of the port, and replied to him, that 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 269 

as this would in all probability become a government matter, 
he was instructed by the first lieutenant of the Macedonian, 
in absence of the captain, to request a written and official 
permit for what he had just stated to be so generously con- 
ceded by the port admiral ; adding, that he would wait un- 
til the required document could be furnished. 

The captain of the port assented, went directly ashore, and 
in two hours returned with a paper containing all that was 
required. Mr. Marshall was much bruised about the head 
and shoulders, and told us of the attempts that were made 
by the Spaniards to get into their wards to kill them. Bull 
was not dangerously wounded, as the ball had struck the 
ribs without touching any vital part. 

On this same afternoon a small Indian canoe came along- 
side with a note from Capt. Downes, dated at Chorillias, a 
small place just south of Lima. Capt. Downes had fled 
there, and was still in his hiding-place, not knowing but that 
the feeling towards him was still hostile. He requested Mr. 
Maury to fit out the pinnace with a gun in the bow, and have 
her well armed with muskets, with a good boat's crew ; also 
to arm and man his gig, and send both boats under guidance 
of the Indian, to a place which the Indian would designate. 
This was truly good news for every soul on board. The 
prevailing gloom and uncertainty respecting his fate, so 
visibly depicted in every countenance, was now entirely re- 
moved. Things now began to assume a cheerful aspect, al- 
though there was a general sentiment of sympathy and 
regret, for the cruel death of our shipmates, which was felt 
by every one, yet as in all cases of affliction, time soon fills 
the chasm, and it is highly proper that it should be so ; for 
if we kept continually mourning over events that have passed, 
and against which we could have had no control, while we 
followed what might have appeared to us the most judicious 
course, we should be entirely unfitted for subsequent duty. 

The boats being all ready the night before, started early 
next morning just after daylight. The Indian said he 
thought they would be back early in the afternoon. Our 
market boat had been ashore. We now had a good supply 
of fruit and fresh beef, and a good dinner for the captain. 



270 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

At about two o'clock the quarter-master reported the boats 
in sight. Every eye was now eagerly directed towards the 
boats ; every spy-glass was in requisition, and so earnest was 
every one to get a sight, that they fairly pulled the glasses 
out of each other's hand. Directly one says : 

" The captain is not there !" which for a few moments 
was a damper ; then again : 

" Yes he is !" 

Up went the mercury again. 

" No, sir ; that's not Capt. Downes." 

" Yes it is ; and there is some one beside him." 

By this time the boats had approached near enough to as- 
certain for a certainty that Capt. Downes was in the boat, 
(pinnace,) and another with him, and it was also ascertained 
that he had disguised himself by shaving off his whiskers, 
and wearing a citizen's black coat. 

The boats now being- within a hundred vards, orders were 
given to cheer ships. Accordingly the rigging and yards 
were manned, and all eagerly watched for the signal. As 
soon as his foot touched the deck, there went up three as 
hearty cheers as ever came from the lungs of men, and a 
more hearty and sincere welcome no man ever witnessed. 
He was accompanied by an English captain and his lady, 
who solicited the favor of a passage, rather than to risk a 
journey by land during the excited state of feeling that per- 
vaded the country. The account Capt. Downes gave of what 
took place with regard to himself in Lima, I have stated in 
a previous page. The merchant captains came to make their 
congratulations, for, had any accident happened to Capt. 
Downes, the event would have seriously affected their inter- 
ests. The death of our men had a serious effect upon him, 
and very much diminished the joy lie felt for his own escape. 
The frigate was hauled back into her old place, and was soon 
put to rights again. Many of the merchant ships had re- 
ceived damages by the shot from the shore, all of which, 
however, were soon repaired. The hasty and inconsiderate 
massacre of our men was deeply regretted by the authorities 
both at Callao and Lima. The Viceroy in his communica- 
tion with the American minister, manifested the deepest sor- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 271 

row, and as we are told that good frequently comes of evil, 
the saying was manifestly true in this case. 

We had ascertained, shortly after our arrival at Callao, 
that there were a number of Americans who had been taken 
by the Peruvians, on board Chilian vessels of war, and who 
had been nearly two years in close confinement in the castle. 
On enquiry, Capt. Downes found it to be so, and immedi- 
ately demanded their release as American citizens. Per- 
mission was obtained from the governor for the officers of 
the Macedonian to visit these prisoners, and to do anything 
for them for their comfort and convenience, that we thought 
proper, consistent with the rules of the prison. 

A lieutenant and four midshipmen visited the prison and 
found thirty-five Americans, and about as many Englishmen, 
some of whom, as the report had stated, had been confined 
there near] v two years ; during which time they had not seen 
daylight. Their cells were lighted by dim lamps, they were 
much emaciated, and several of their unfortunate compan- 
ions had died of starvation. They were heavily chained, and 
scarcely able to crawl, and such were their emotions on see- 
ing these friends, that they cried like children, taking hold 
of the officer's hands, and nearly devouring them with kisses. 
There were some who had not been solono* in confinement, who 
were young men, on whom the hardships of a Spanish prison 
had not such a visible effect ; there were about twenty of the 
latter, and to whom our officers communicated the object of 
their visit. 

They were all assured that relief, if not liberty, was at 
hand. This was a happy day with these poor wretches, who, 
in all probability, would never again have seen the light of 
the sun, had it not been for this accidental discovery. 

On the return of the officers to the ship, a contribution 
was immediately set on foot, and about three hundred dollars 
in money was raised, besides clothing of every sort, books, 
paper, pens, slates, and /i quantity of beds, blankets, pro- 
visions ; in fact everything that could be thought of that 
would contribute to their comfort. No distinction was made 
between English and American, all were claimed as Ameri- 
cans, and received the same protection. 



272 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

When these things were carried to them, their joy knew 
no hounds. It was necessary to appoint six of the most 
healthy among the younger, to take charge of the articles, 
and to see that nothing was wasted. Capt. Downes made 
a "business of waiting on the Viceroy, in order to effect the 
release of these unfortunate men. 

The Viceroy evidently felt that the massacre of the Mac- 
edonian's men would be a subject of claim by the United 
States government, and that by conceding to the demand of 
Capt, Downes, in delivering up these prisoners, it might in 
some measure, ameliorate the affair ; so he promised Capt. 
Downes that he would liberate them on our return to Callao, 
which would probably be in about three months ; in the mean- 
time, they should be removed to a more comfortable part 
of the prison, should be allowed the open air during the 
day. 

These glad tidings put new life in the poor fellows, and 
when they were told that they would be liberated in three 
months from our departure, they really felt anxious for us 
to sail, notwithstanding our visits gave them such joy. And 
who, that dives into the mystery of human nature, can help 
seeing a full development of that innate desire for happiness 
which in many instances, appears a mass of contradictions. 
As in the case of these poor prisoners ; their eyes glistened 
with joy at the sight of their benefactors, yet they wished 
them to go, that the time for their emancipation might the 
sooner come. 

I have already mentioned that the merchant ships gener- 
ally had large amounts of specie on board, and were waiting 
to be convoyed out by the Macedonian. Specie was prohib- 
ited from being taken out of the country, and it required 
much skill and some risk to get it on board the ships. The 
manner in which this was done, is as follows : 

A merchant on shore, wishing to put money on board a ship, 
notifies a waterman, (who generally has two or more boats 
in his employ,) that he wishes to put a quantity of dollars, 
or virgin silver, on board such a ship. The Custom House 
boats are constantly prowling about for the purpose of mak- 
ing sei/Aircs. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 273 

These watermen, well understand these fellows, and 
with few exceptions, generally elude them. The waterman 
agrees to put the money on "board for a stipulated premium, 
he is taken on board the ship and introduced to the captain 
and mate who are always to be in readiness to receive the 
money the instant it comes along-side. The waterman now 
obtains from somewhere three, four, or five thousand dollars, 
which he carries safely to the ship, where it is counted, and 
for which he takes a receipt signed by the captain and mate. 
He takes this receipt to the merchant and receives the 
amount and premium. This he also carries safely on board, 
and brings back his receipt, and so on. In this manner no 
one runs any risk but the boatmen, who often make five 
thousand dollars on one ship. Sometimes however, there 
happens fearful fights between these watermen and the Cus- 
tom House soldiers, but as the former are much more numer- 
ous than the latter and always hang together and assist each 
other, it very seldom happens that they lose anything; al- 
though there have been instances where they have met with 
heavy losses. 

One morning at about sunrise, a few days before we sailed, 
we saw a ship coming into the bay, under American colors, 
and evidently with the intention of running the blockade, 
but very soon we saw the Lotaro under way, she being the 
weathermost ship, and nearest the merchantman. There 
was a good breeze and it was certain that the Lotaro would 
head her off, and thus she would become a prize, which was 
the case. We saw them take possession of her, and both she, 
and the Lotaro went round to Guamas, a harbor a few miles 
north of St. Lorenzo, and in possession of the Chilians, and 
it is here that communication is had with Gen. San. Martin's 
army, who are encamped near the walls of Lima. 

In the course of the day we learned, but from what source 
I cannot tell, that the captured ship was an American, and 
had on board for cargo,- muskets, pistols, powder, and all 
sorts of warlike stores. This made Capt. Downes anxious to 
get away for he had determined on her rescue. 

The fleet were notified of our time of sailing, which was 
on the morning of the second day from the notice. Every 



R 






274 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

ship must he ready for getting under way at daylight, so 
as to have the advantage of the land breeze. The order of 
sailing was as follows : 

The merchant ships to form two lines, and to proceed 
ahead of the frigates, and all who were armed with cannon 
or small arms, to have them loaded in order to prevent any 
hoats from boarding them, also to pay no attention to any 
hailing from the blockading ships, and to put all the sail on 
which could be prudently carried. The English frigate Hy- 
perion, not being ready for sea, sent two cutters well manned 
and armed for the protection of the English merchantman. 
We also had two cutters, well provided with small arms, 
and sufficiently manned, to prevent any of our ships from 
being boarded. 

On the morning appointed, the ships were all ready, and 
the dropping of our fore top-sail was the signal for them to 
get under way, which they did in good style. The Boston 
ship, Panther, Capt. Austin, took the lead: as soon as it was 
discovered by the blockading fleet, that we were under way, 
they unmoored, and were quickly under sail. His Lordship 
was at this time confined to his bed in consequence of a gun- 
shot wound in the thigh, which he received on the deck of 
the Esmaralda. The Lotaro had gone, so there remained 
only the O'Higgins, lndependentia, several small vessels, and 
one other ship, the name of which I have forgotten. 

We thought it possible, that Cochrane might have the im- 
pudence or temerity to stop some of the ships, and possibly, 
he might have it in contemplation, to give us battle, think- 
in"- that he might get a better haul now, than when we went 
in. But we were at quarters all ready for him ; running 
along under our throe top-sails. 

Coehrane's ship was now abreast of us, within pistol shot, 
and, although he was wounded, yet he evidently directed 
every movement of his ship. We kept perfect silence oar 
guns trained upon him. We saw a boat from the O'Hig- 
gins, going towards the Panther, she was not allowed to come 
along-side, and retired with a ilea in their ear. The mer- 
chant ships were now outside of St. Lorenzo, with every- 
thing on which they could wear. We now made sail, and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 275 

were soon up with them. Our kind neighbors very prudently 
tacked ship, and sneaked hack again to their den. We con- 
tinued with our charge until the land was out of sight, and 
then stood back for Guam as. 

The following is the English account of the capture of the 
Esmaralda : 

" While the liberating army under San Martin were re- 
moving to Anson, Lord Cochrane, with part of his squadron, 
anchored in the outer roads of Callao, the seaport of Lima. 
The inner harbor was guarded bv an extensive svstem of 
batteries, admirably constructed, and bearing the name of 
the Castle of Callao. 

" The merchant ships, as well as the men-of-war, consist- 
ing at the time, of the Esmaralda, a large 40 gun frigate, 
and two sloops-of-war, were moored under the guns of the 
castle, within a semi-circle of fourteen gunboats and a boom 
made of spars chained together. Lord Cochrane, having 
previously reconnoitered the formidable defence in person, 
undertook, on the 5th of November, the desperate enterprise 
of cutting out the Spanish frigate, although she was known 
to be fully prepared for an attack. His Lordship proceeded 
in fourteen boats, containing 240 men, all volunteers from 
the different ships of the squadron, in two divisions, one 
under the immediate orders of Capt. Crosbie, the other under 
Capt. Guise, both officers commanding ships of the Chilian 
squadron. At midnight, the boats having forced their way 
across the boom, Lord. Cochrane, who was leading, rowed 
along-side the first gunboat, and taking the officer by sur- 
prise, proposed to him, with a pistol at his head, the alterna- 
tive of silence or death. No reply was made, the boats 
pushed on unobserved, and Lord Cochrane, mounting the 
Esmaralda's side, was the first to give the alarm. The sen- 
tinel on the gangway, levelled his piece and fired, but was 
instantly cut down by the coxswain, and his Lordship, though 
wounded in the thigh, at the same moment stepped on deck. 
The frigate being boarded with no less gallantry on the other 
side by Capt. Guise, who met Lord Cochrane midway on the 
quarter-deck, and also by Capt. Crosbie, the after part of 
the ship was soon carried, sword in hand. The Spaniards 



276 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

rallied on the forecastle, where they made a desperate re- 
sistance, until overpowered by a fresh party of seamen and 
mariners, headed by Lord Cochrane. A gallant stand was 
again made after a short time on the main deck, but before 
1 o'clock, the ship was captured, her cables cut, and she 
was steered triumphantly out of the harbor, under the fire 
of the whole of the north force of the castle. 

" The Hyperion, an English, and the Macedonian, an Amer- 
ican frigate, which were at anchor close to the scene of ac- 
tion, got under way, when the attack commenced, and in 
order to prevent their being mistaken by the batteries for 
the Esmaralda, showed distinguishing signals. But Lord Coch- 
rane, who had foreseen and provided even for this minute 
circumstance, hoisted the same lights as the English and 
American frigates, and thus rendered it impossible for the 
batteries to discriminate between the three ships. The Es- 
maralda was in consequence, very little injured by the shot. 

" The Spaniards had upwards of 120 men killed and wound- 
ed ; the Chilians 1 1 killed and 30 wounded. This loss was a 
death blow to the Spanish naval force in that quarter of the 
world ; for although there were still two Spanish frigates and 
some smaller vessels in the Pacific, they never afterwards 
ventured to show themselves, but left Lord Cochrane undis- 
puted master of the coast. The skill and gallantry dis- 
played by Lord Cochrane, both in planning and conducting 
this astonishing enterprise, so peculiarly his own, and so 
much in character with the great deeds of his early life, that 
a copy of his instructions for the action, and his subsequent 
dispatch, will be read with much interest." 

Copy of Lord Coch ran e's preparatory memorandum to 
the Chilian squadron, dated on board the Chilian States ship, 
0'Hiogi nSj i s t November, 1820. 

" The boats will proceed, towing the launches, in two lines 
parallel to each other, which are to be at the distance of three 
boat's length asunder. The second line will be under the 
charge of Capt. Guise. Each boat will be under the charge 
of a volunteer commissioned officer, so far as circumstances 
permit, and the whole under the immediate command of the 
admiral. The officers and men are all to be dressed in white 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 277 

jackets, frocks, or shirts, and armed with pistols, sabres, 
knives, tomahawks or pikes. Two boat-keepers are to be ap- 
pointed to each boat, who, on no pretence whatever, shall 
quit their respective boats, but are to remain therein, and 
take care that the boats do not get adrift. Each boat is to 
be provided with one or more axes, or sharp hatchets, which 
are to be kept swung to the girdle of the boat-keepers. 

" The frigate Esmaralda being the chief object of the ex- 
pedition, the whole force is first to attack that ship, which, 
when carried, is not to be cut adrift, but is to remain in pos- 
session of the patriotic seamen, to ensure the capture of the 
rest. 

" In securing the frigate, the Chilian seamen and mariners 
are not to cheer as if they were Chilians ; but in order to de- 
ceive the enemy, and give time for completing the work, are 
to cheer ' Vive el Roi ! ' 

" The two brigs-of-war are to be fired on by the musketry 
from the Esmaralda, and are to be taken possession of by 
Lieutenants Esmond and Morgall, in the boats they com- 
mand, which being done, they are to be cut adrift, run out, 
and anchor in the offing as quick as possible. 

" The boats of the Independentia are to busy themselves 
in turning adrift all the outward Spanish merchant ships. 
And the boats of the O'Higgins and Lotaro under Lieuten- 
ants Bell and Robertson, are to set fire to one or more of the 
headmost hulks ; but these are not to be cut adrift, so as to 
fall down upon the rest. 

" The watchword, or parole and countersign, should the 
white dress not be sufficient distinction in the dark, are 
' Gloria/ to be answered by ' Victoria.' 

(Signed,) Cochrane. 

Whether Lord Cochrane really expected to extend his 
operations beyond the capture of the frigate, or whether he 
merely wished to inspire his people with courage by making 
the main object appear only a part of the enterprise, is un- 
certain ; but in either case, the effect could not fail to be val- 
uable. 

The foregoing memorandum being addressed to English- 
men and North Americans, was written in English. The 



278 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

following letter I have never seen, except in the original 
Spanish translation of Admiral Lord Cochrane's dispatch to 
General San Martin, commander-in-chief of the liberating 
army of Pern : 

" On board the Chilian States ship O'Higgins, before 
Callao, Nov. 11, 1820. — Most excellent Sir : The efforts of 
his Excellency, the Supreme Director, and the sacrifices of the 
patriots of the South to acquire the dominion of the Pacific, 
have hitherto been frustrated chief! v bv the enormous strength 
of the batteries of Callao, (which being superior to those of 
Algiers or Gibraltar) rendered every attack against the naval 
force of the enemy impracticable with any class or number 
of ships-of-war. Nevertheless, being desirous of advancing 
the cause of national liberty and political independence, which 
is the great object your Excellency has in view, and to pro- 
mote the happiness of mankind, I was anxious to dispel the 
charm which heretofore has paralyzed our naval efforts. 
With this intention, I carefully examined the batteries, the 
ships-of-war and the gunboats in this port, and being satisfied 
that the frigate Esmaralda would be cut out by men resolved 
to do their duty, I immediately gave orders to the captains 
of the Independentia and Lotaro to prepare their boats, and 
acquainted them that the value of that frigate, together 
with the reward offered in Lima for the capture of any of 
the ships of Chili would be the recompense of those who 
should volunteer to take part in this enterprise. 

"On the following dav, a number of volunteers, including 
captains Foster, Guise and Crosbie, with other officers, offered 
their services, the whole amounting to a force sufficient for 
the execution of the project. Everything being prepared, 
the boats were exercised in the dark, in the evening of the 
4th inst., and the night of the 5th of November was chosen 
for the attack. Capt. Crosbie had charge of the first division, 
consisting of the boats of the O'Higgins, and Capt. Guise 
of the second, which was formed of those of the other ships. 
At half-past ten, we rowed in two lines towards the enemy's 
anchorage, and at twelve, forced the line of gunboats guard- 
ing the entrance. 

" The whole of our force boarded the Esmaralda at the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 279 

same moment, and drove the enemy from the deck, after an 
obstinate resistance. All the officers employed in this ser- 
vice have conducted themselves in the most gallant manner. 
To them, and also to the seamen and mariners, I feel under 
deep obligations for their activity and zeal in boarding the 
Esmaralda. I was sorry that the necessity of leaving at 
least one captain in charge of the ships, prevented my 
acceding to the wishes of the captain of the Independent a, 
who accordingly remained with the squadron. 

" I have also to lament the loss we sustained. That of the 
Esmaralda cannot be exactly ascertained, on account of the 
wounded and others who leaped overboard ; but we know 
that out of 330 individuals originally on board, only 20i 
have been found alive, including officers and wounded men. 

" The Esmaralda mounts 40 guns, and is not in a bad 
state as was represented, but on the contrary, very well found, 
and perfectly equipped. She has on board three month's 
provision, besides a supply of cordage and other articles for 
two years. A gunboat of four guns which lay directly in 
the passage of our boats, was boarded and towed out on the 
following morning. 

"I hope the capture of the flag-ship Esmaralda, secured 
in booms, batteries and gunboats, in a situation always be- 
fore deemed impregnable, and in sight of the capital, where 
the fact cannot be concealed, will produce a moral effect 
greater than might be expected under other circumstances. 

" I have great satisfaction in sending you the ilag of Ad- 
miral Vacaro, that you may be pleased to present it to his 
Excellency, the Supreme Director of the Republic of Chili." 

(Signed,) Cochrane. 



CH APTEE XIII. 

Arrive at Guamas, — Prize safely moored, — Plan contemplated for cutting 
her out, — Movements suspected, — Caution, — Preliminary movements, — 
Plan fixed, — Previous arrangements, — This daring plan successfully 
executed, — Consternation of Guise, — Gets under way for a chase,— Tacks 
ship and goes back, — Merchant ship goes to the Marquesas, — Frigate 
goes North, — Report of an American ship in trouble, — Enter a small 
p 0r t, — We are fired on, — No notice taken of it, — Negro's story, — 
Sail for Panama, — Anchorage, — Rather Suspicious, — Depredations of 
Cochrane, — Land atToboga, — Natives alarmed, — Become reconciled, — 
Description of the island, — Remarks, — Rescue a fugitive prisoner, — An 
old acquaintance, — His history, — Story of his escape, — Manner of 
living, — Made purser's steward of the frigate, — Rescue a young Irish 
prisoner, — Water-filled, — Sail for San Bias, — Small-pox,— -Its ravages, 
— Arrive, — Catch a monstrous shark, — Remarkable tenacity of life, — 
Contents of his stomach, — Midshipman Wilson leaves the ship, — Goes 
to Manilla, — Is murdered, — Cut into seventy pieces, — Cause of the 
general massacre, — Leave San Bias for Moliendo, — Its description, — 
Singular method of fishing, — Boys playing in the surf, — School for 
Children, — Jesuit. 

Our entry into Guamas very much alarmed Capt. 
Guise of the Lotaro; but it was a matter of rejoicing to the 
American captain, (whose name I have lost.) His ship lay 
moored near the Lotaro, and just as she came from sea. 
Capt. Downes had some fears, that they would strip her; 
which, if they had done, would have prevented any attempt 
on our part to have cut her out. We ran in and anchored 
within about two cables length of the Lotaro, and in a good 
position for getting under way. The prize lay inshore of the 
Lotaro, leaving just room enough for both ships to swing- 
clear of each other. There were several transport ships and 
two American whalers lying there. We had hardly come to 
an anchor, when the captain of the prize came on board ; 
and both he and Capt. Downes went into the cabin to talk 
over matters and things. 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 281 

Now, our sole purpose in coming here, was to rescue this 
ship; and I must say, to judge from the position of the 
prize and that of the Lotaro, an attempt to get this ship 
clear, would, to say the least, be extremely hazardous, if not 
wholly impossible. To attempt, and make a failure, would 
not only be very mortifying but in all probability the means 
of much bloodshed. Capt. Guise could not help feeling some 
intimation that Capt. Downcs would endeavor, in some way, 
to liberate the ship, as he well knew his bold and determined 
character. And yet it seemed a matter of impossibility, 
that the ship could be taken from under his broadside. 
Capt. Downes, in order to lull any suspicion of an attempt 
of this kind, had an interview with Capt. Guise, as to what 
he thought of a proposition to ransom the ship. In the 
meantime, the captain had spread abroad a rumor, that 
through Capt. Downes, his ship would be ransomed, and in 
a few days he would be off. Now there was no time to be 
lost, as there remained but one alternative, and that a des- 
perate one, the sooner it was carried into effect, the better. 
Bansoming or compromising, was entirely out of the question, 
as neither Capt. Downes nor himself had any authority for 
entering into a business of this kind. Besides, the ship was 
a valuable prize, if she could be legally condemned, and 
in all probability a great sum would be required for her. 
The plan was kept as private as possible ; for, if the boats' 
crews got wind of it, there would be a danger of its leaking 
out on shore, and then the jig would be up. 

The following plan was then agreed on, which the sequel 
will show proved successful. The crew, ten in number, were 
all on shore, and in order that they might be on hand, were 
persuaded to stay on board the frigate. At first they hesi- 
tated ; as there was strong inducements held out to them to 
enter on board Cochrane's ship; such as good wages, plenty 
of prize money, and what was more alluring than all, plenty 
of grog, and no flogging. And, as they all had a consider- 
able amount of wages due them, were holding on, to await 
the issue of jbhe trial. But they finally consented to come on 
board. It was highly important to secure these men, as we 
could not well spare a crew from our ship. It was also nee- 



282 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

essary that they should he let into the secret, and in the 
event of success they were to have a handsome present. 

This matter being arranged, the next thing was, to know 
how to get clear of the officer, and the twelve marines, 
or soldiers, who were constantly on guard during the night, 
as well as on the lookout during the day. All this must he 
effected by stratagem, and in the following manner. It was 
well known by the officer on board the prize, or rather he 
had heard, that through the official interference of Capt. 
Downes, the ship would be liberated by compromise. Not- 
withstanding all this, Capt Guise had given him orders not 
to admit any one on board, except the captain, who still 
held his state-room, and slept on board ; and the mate was 
also retained for the purpose of taking care of sails and rig- 
ging, and to lookout for cables and anchors in case of a 
blow. Neither of them were allowed to have any fire-arms 
or powder in their possession. Capt. Guise seldom left his 
ship, as though he feared that something might happen. 

A crew of seventy-five men were selected from among our 
best seamen, who were all to be armed, with a pair of pistols 
and a cutlass each. The night was fixed upon, and it was 
necessary and important that the ship should be clear before 
two o'clock in the morning ; as up to that time there was 
generally a good breeze blowing oft' shore, and this breeze, 
brought the prize in a more favorable position for getting 
under way. 

On the afternoon previous to the night when the attempt 
was to be made, the captain went on board his ship apparently 
in high glee, exhibiting a roll of paper, and saying to the 
officer, "well I am clear; you will have your orders to quit 
by to-morrow morning." He had brought off a demijohn of 
brandy, and a box of champagne to treat his friends on this 
happy occasion, after he had obtained his liberty. 

A bottle of brandy was placed upon the table ; and a 
large tin pot full privately given to the marines. The ef- 
fects of the brandv were soon visible among the marines. 
who, by eight o'clock, were all drunk. The prize officer also 
felt rather sleepy, and took a snooze on the cabin sofa. Ami 
now was the time for the captain and mate to work, as all 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 283 

depended on the promptness with which everything was done. 
One of the cables, (hemp,) was sawed off on the windlass, 
and jnst stopped to keep it from running out. 

A sharp axe was laid near the other, ready for use ; the 
mate then went aloft very silently, cast off the gaskets from 
the top-sail yards, and stopped the sails with rope yarns ; and 
did the same with the top-gallantrsails. He then loosed 
the jib and fore top-mast staysail, hut kept them on the 
boom, then saw the sheets and halliards clear. During this 
time there were two soldiers walking the gangway ; but 
had too much brandy on board, to suspect anything wrong ; 
and at intervals sung out " All's well." It was not thought 
expedient to make any signal from the frigate, that might 
be seen by the Lotaro ; so it was arranged that when six 
bells (eleven o'clock) struck on board the frigate, the boat 
would leave with the men selected for the occasion. 

As this enterprise had been carefully planned, (for as I 
stated before, a failure would have been disastrous) it was in- 
dispensable that a line should be run from the merchant ship 
to a projecting rock, about three times her length, from 
where she lay, in order to give her headway, and to get her 
from the range of the Lotaro's guns as quick as possible. 
This was accomplished in the following manner : Two coils 
of rope were put into our boat that was to carry the men to 
the ship, and when the boat left the frigate, the men, all ex- 
cept the two who were to row with muffled oars, were to 
lie down so as they might not be seen. The boat was to 
creep along inshore close to the land ; cross the entrance of 
the harbor to the rock ; make the line fast, and take the end 
to the prize. The mate, who being on the lookout in the 
head, was to haul the end on board. They were then to 
board the ship over the bow, and knock down the sentinels. 
The captain was to secure the cabin doors, to prevent the of- 
ficer from coming up. The cable was then to be cut, the 
line manned, and the ship hauled out. All this was done 
with admirable precision. As soon as the blow was struck 
upon the cable, it was heard on board the Lotaro, and di- 
rectly all was commotion on board that ship. Capt. Guise 
was up in an instant, and hailed the prize: "What are yon 



284 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

about there, sir." The ship was now ranging ahead, when 
Guise immediately hailed : " Let go your spare anchor, sir, 
immediately, or I will fire into you." " Aye, aye, sir," says 
the mate. " Clear away your guns ; all hands unmoor ship," 
were the mixed and confused orders on board the Lotaro, 
" Sheet liome your top-sails /" says the captain, in a long, 
bold, and authoritative manner, so as to be distinctly heard 
by all on board the Lotaro. " Run up your jib and fore top- 
mast staysail." And now she was clear ! 

Before the boat had left the frigate, we had hove short, 
and hoisted our top-sail yards without loosing the sails, or 
making the least noise. The wind was right aft for us, but 
on the starboard quarter for the prize. We were soon up 
witli her, and both ships were ahead of the Lotaro, who had 
cracked on every thing she could wear. But it was of no use 
now for Capt. Guise to think of a re-capture. We beat to 
quarters, and were all ready for him in case he should fire ; 
but he very prudently did not We kept close to our prize, 
and both, making all sail, soon dropped the Lotaro, who 
tacked and went back. Both ships now hove to, shifted our 
men, and put the prize officer, and his twelve soldiers on 
board his boat, gave them two bottles of brandy, a keg of 
water, some bread, and salt fish, and sent them on their way 
rejoicing. They reached the shore in safety, as we shall af- 
terwards see. Thus ended this well planned and successful 
scheme, and the brilliancy of the achievement is equal, if 
not superior, to the cutting out of the Esmaralda. 

In the former case, there was not a single life lost, and 
here was a prize taken from under the guns of a fifty gun 
ship, who might easily, had they known enough, have man- 
ned four or live boats, and boarded her, when of course there 
would have been a fight, which would have caused a de- 
tention, and in all probability, her re-capture. We separa- 
ted, and proceeded down the coast and our quondam consort 
stood over to the Marquesas. 

While we were at Guamas, a captain of a whale ship told 
Capt. Downes, that there was an American ship in some dif- 
ficulty at a small port about thirty leagues north of Callao. 
Wo followed the coast down, and entered what was supposed 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 285 

by description, to be the place alluded to. We found plenty 
of water, and sufficient room to work ship. At the entrance, 
there was what appeared to be a fort, and when abreast of 
it we were saluted with a shot from a nine pounder ! which 
came whistling over us. No notice was taken of it, as it 
was not repeated. We could count, I think eight men in the 
fort, and but one mounted gun. We ran up just far enough 
to ascertain that there was no ship there ; then tacked and 
stood out again. We could easily see that our entering the 
harbor, had caused much consternation and alarm among 
the inhabitants. It was a pretty little town with a fine large 
church standing on an eminence. We had a negro onboard, 
who had run away from the Lotaro, and had got on board 
our ship at Guamas. He had formerly belonged to Coch- 
rane's ship. He told us "that about three months before, 
Cochrane had taken a cruise down the coast, with his ship 
only, and that they had landed and plundered many small 
places along the coast, and had taken many valuable things 
from the churches, which he invariably robbed wherever he 
went. 

He said that at this place he went in, let go his anchor, 
sent three armed boats with sixty men, took the fort, which, 
however, was a very easy matter, for on the approach of the 
boats the soldiers ran away. They landed at a short dis- 
tance from the fort, entered it and capsized the guns over- 
board. They then proceeded to the town. The terrified in- 
habitants were seen fleeing in all directions ; the sight of the 
frigate had so alarmed them that they made no resistance. 
The marauding party proceeded first to the church and took 
away a great amount of silver, among which was a number 
of massive silver candlesticks. They knocked the valuable 
eyes out of the Virgin Mary, and stole the golden crown from 
her head, and the rich slippers from her feet, which were 
studded with precious stones, and in order to get the jeweled 
rings from her fingers, these sacrilegious scamps actually 
broke the hands off at the wrists, but showing no further in- 
dignities, left this so-called queen of Heaven, without hands 
or eyes, crown less and barefooted. They then proceeded to 
the stores and dwelling-houses, and as an expeditious method 



286 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of opening chests and boxes, they applied a loaded pistol to 
the keyhole, which did away with the necessity of a key, 
taking however only valuable articles and money. Before 
they had got quite through with their plunder, they were at- 
tacked by the inhabitants and what soldiers could be mus- 
tered, and a severe fight ensued, but they all reached their 
boats with the exception of ten, who had laid siege to a grog 
shop, and were wholly unable to fight. These were marched 
off' to prison, and came very near being killed by the infuri- 
ated populace. Many of those who made their escape to the 
boats were severely wounded, besides the boat-keepers who 
had been attacked by the soldiers for the purpose of getting 
back their stolen property. When the boats had returned 
to the frigate witli the plunder, and it was reported to Coch- 
rane that there were ten men made prisoners on shore, he 
sent a message saving, if their men were not immediately 
given up, he would lay the place in ashes. As any resistance 
on the part of the people was out of the question, the drunk- 
en sailors were given up, and when our ship made her ap- 
pearance, although with a different flag, they supposed her 
to be the same one, come again to finish up what they had 
left undone of their previous depredations. We sailed from 
this port for Panama, where we stopped to fill up our fresh 
water, as it was inconvenient to do it at Callao. 

The watering-place was at Toboga, an island in the Bay 
of Panama. We anchored about ten miles distant from it, 
so that we could easily communicate with Panama at the 
same time. The entrance into the city from the water, was 
by one gate only, and that strongly guarded by soldiers, as 
in most Spanish towns the guard house is near the gates. It 
was, at a former visit, rather difficult for any of the officers 
of the frigate to enter the town, as they were rather suspi- 
cious of us, not knowing our true character. Cochrane had 
anchored there only a few months before under English col- 
ors, but they soon became suspicious, and would not allow him 
to land, and finally ordered him off. 

Thev then went down to Toboga. destroyed a fort and robbed 
a poor family (the only one on the island.) of their fowls and 
pigs ; and when our boat landed they were terribly frightened, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 287 

but we succeeded in assuring tliem that we were friends and 
Americans, and not as they at first supposed, Chilians. The 
place where we obtained our water was one of the most lovely 
groves I had ever seen. Oranges, lemons, pineapples, grow- 
ing spontaneously, and all around us birds of beautiful plu- 
mage and of the sweetest notes warbling on every tree 
throughout this Paradise. These kind and "hospitable semi- 
Indian islanders, treated us to roasted plantains, and delicious 
bananas in which the island abounded. Plainly showing that 
the milk of human kindness is indigenous to the soil of our 
natures, and does not always require civilization for its de- 
velopment. In my travels through the world how much 
have I learned from the half-civilized and untutored, and 
from the savage too. The Fejee and Tongataboo canni- 
bals kill, roast and eat their victims, not because their hearts 
are more prone to wickedness and cruelty than was that of 
Napoleon Bonaparte, Nicholas of Eussia, and many others 
whose deeds of cruelty have almost given the lie to any pre- 
tensions of an advancement towards civilization or of hu- 
manity. The former, act from an impulse springing from 
what they suppose and actually believe to be lawful and just- 
ifiable revenge for injuries. And there is not a doubt in my 
mind, and if this were a proper place, I think I could demon- 
strate it fully, that these and all the Oceanic islanders are 
the descendants of the lost tribes of Israel, evidently retain- 
ing that innate vindictive law, "an eye for an eye, and a 
tooth for tooth," and also of the indiscriminate slaughter of 
their enemies. 

And even among these, there is in their hearts a small res- 
ervoir of uncontaminated benevolence kept there to show 
that they came from God ! One day on returning to the 
ship from the watering-place, on passing an island near To- 
boga, and being close in, we saw something that looked like 
a large seal on a projecting rock, but soon ascertained that 
it was a man. He jumped into the water and swam to our 
boat ; we took him in. He was nearly naked ; his hair was 
long and matted ; his beard very black and bushy ; taking 
him altogether, he was a frightful looking fellow. 

He told us that he and several others were taken in a 



288 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Chilian privateer, by a Spanish frigate, brought to Panama, 
and imprisoned ; being heavily chained, and put in dun- 
geons. Such being the fate of all privateersmcn sentenced to 
death. They had been in prison about sixty days, when lie 
and two others, in a most remarkable manner, made their es- 
cape. As these three were confined in one cell, they had 
during the day contrived to wrench off their chains, and at 
night to remove heavy stones and get away almost under the 
very nose and eyes of the sentinels. They were obliged to 
drop some distance into the sea, and fortunately for them, it 
was then high water. If, however, the tide had been out 
they must have dropped on the rocks, and run the risk of 
breaking their limbs, or of dashing out their brains. I have 
stood over the place many a time, and the very look of it is 
enough to frighten one. They swam round the fort, got upon 
the beach and made their way into a mass of thick under 
brush, burrowed into the ground, burying themselves com- 
pletely up, and there they lie ; the day was just beginning to 
dawn. 

Hardly had it become light, when they heard the cry of 
the soldiers in search of them. It so happened, that there 
were no traces left of their entrance into this brushwood, or 
in all probability, they would have been discovered. On the 
following night, when all was still, they very cautiously 
crawled out, weak and nearly famished for want of water. 
They concluded to separate and each to do the best he could 
for himself. He made his way to the water side, having 
taken neither food nor water for ten days, and was so 
weak that he could scarcely crawl. He came to a hut, 
where was an old Spanish woman, and from her he obtained 
water and some plantains, with which he was much revived. 
It was dangerous to remain here; for if her husband should 
come home, and find him, he would in all probability inform 
against him for the sake of the reward, which is always paid 
for the apprehension of prisoners who have deserted, lie 
started off, continuing his course along the beach ; but it < - 
cured to him, that if his track was discovered, they would 
surely be after him. So he went aside into the bushes, and 
shortly came across the trunk of a tree that was very dry 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 289 

and light, and about ten feet long. As soon as it was dark, 
lie contrived to get it into the water ; and got upon it and 
committed himself into the hands of his Maker. The wind 
was oft' shore, and by paddling with his hands, and keeping 
very steady, by daylight he found himself near the island. 
He said that during the whole night the sharks were around 
him in all directions ; he expected every moment to be drag- 
ged off and devoured. But God protected him, and he 
reached the island in safety, and at first was unable to stand. 
But after lying a few hours, his strength returned, and he 
began to look around, and to his great joy he found that 
the rocks were covered with periwinkles, and other kinds of 
shell-fish, and a short way up the hill was a running spring 
of excellent water. 

He now felt secure, as the island was uninhabited, and he 
could hide himself away in a hundred caverns where no 
mortal man could find him, and if the spring held out, he 
could live there many years. But he felt sure that Divine 
Providence would open the way for his escape in his own time 
and in his own way. " When I saw your ship come to an 
anchor, and the boat come this way, I felt that my trouble 
was over." 

By this time we had reached the frigate. We took the 
man to the first lieutenant, related how we had found him, 
and left him to tell his own story. He was taken below, 
shaved, washed, and clothed, and when he appeared on deck 
again, I immediately recognized him as an old acquaintance 
in Gibraltar. His name was John Laird, a Scotchman by 
birth, and had been a merchant in Gibraltar, dealing princi- 
pally in hardware, and it was from his store that the United 
States ships were supplied with articles in that department. 
He had been unsuccessful in Gibraltar, and took passage for 
Valparaiso to try his fortune in Chili. On his arrival there 
he found a Chilian privateer fitting, which held out great 
inducements for adventurers " to make a great deal of money 
in a very short time." His story however, was the sequel of 
his adventure. 

As he was well educated, he was appointed purser's stew- 
ard of the frigate ; performed his duty faithfully, proved 



290 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

himself a gentleman, and remained on board the ship until 
she was paid off in Boston. One day while the midshipmen 
were walking through a street in Panama, and just as they 
were passing an apothecary shop, they were addressed in 
English, by a young man who appeared to be the shopkeeper. 
They went in, and as there was no one there but himself, he 
told them that he was a prisoner, and had been taken in a 
Chilian ship-of-war, by a Spanish frigate, and that the old 
Spaniard who owned the establishment had hired his servi- 
ces from the government, and was also responsible for his 
safe keeping. He was a fine, likely looking young man, and 
immediately engaged the sympathy of the midshipmen in 
his favor, and they at once hit upon a plan for his escape, 
winch was, that they were to come on shore the next day, 
with an extra suit of midshipman's uniform, which just be- 
fore sunset he was to put on, and pass out of the gate with 
them, as an American midshipman. 

The plan was successful, and he found himself safely on 
board an American frigate, although he was an Irishman. 
He had received a college education in Ireland, and was an 
excellent surgeon. Having filled up our water, we sailed 
for San Bias. Very soon after leaving Panama, the small- 
pox broke out, and spread rapidly through the ship ; al- 
though but few died, yet the ship was a complete hospital. 
Two tiers of hammocks were hung along on each side of the 
gun-deck. Fortunately the weather was good, and by the 
unremitting attention and skill of Dr. Edo-ar, with Dr. 
Ticknor, the disease was stayed, and the ship's company re- 
stored to perfect health again. 

This second visit to San Bias, was through the solicitation of 
several merchants, who had been largely engaged in business 
at Guadalaxara, and other places in the interior of Mexico, 
and in consequence of the unsettled state of the country, 
felt that their property was unsafe, and wished tohave it re- 
moved to the United States. On our former visit to this place, 
Capt. Downes had given them encouragement that he would 
return again in the course of a few months, which would 
give them time to collect their specie ready for shipping. 

While lying here we caught the largest shark I had ever 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 201 

seen. He had been several hours playing round the ship ; 
and it seemed as though he wanted to be taken ; so we 
baited a good strong shark hook, and hung it over the bow ; 
and it had hardly reached tb» water, when he came up, 
rolled over, opened his tremendous jaws, and swallowed 
the hook. I could not refrain from thinking how many well 
baited shark hooks, there are set to catch unwary young- 
men, who are in the habit of lurking round places of dan- 
ger ; when it too often happens, that if they once get hooked 
they are gone. Possibly it may be with them, as it is some- 
times with the shark, they escape with a broken hook in their 
mouth, which must be to them a source of pain and misery 
the remainder of their lives. Young reader, think of this ! 
But to return to our shark. We tried to drown the mon- 
ster and thought we had succeeded. We then got a good 
rope with a bowline over him, and a tackle on the fish davit, 
and roused him up, but he had no notion of dying, and ap- 
peared as lively as ever. We ran boarding pikes down his 
throat ; that also had but little effect upon him. We then 
turned boiling water down his gullet , this stilled him for 
a few minutes, but he soon revived again and began to 
thrash round in a terrible manner. We then tried what 
efficacy there would be in red-hot firebrands, which were 
jammed down his throat ; and the tenacity with which this 
fellow hung on to life, was truly astonishing. We finally 
hoisted him on board, and as soon as he touched the deck, he 
commenced again, and fairly took possession of the forecastle. 
One fellow shoved a white oak capstan bar into his mouth, 
which he ground up like a biscuit. 

Next, we ripped him open, and took from his maw, a whole 
bullock's head, the entire hide, and a full bushel of fish. 
Even when his entrails were taken out, he would snap at 
a piece of wood, and hold it so firm that a man could 
scarcely get it away. He measured sixteen feet in length, 
and about eight feet nine inches round the body ; he could 
have swallowed a good sized man whole, and there still would 
have been room for a bushel or two of fish for dunnage. 

This, although a fish story, I assure the reader is true, as 
I was an eye-witness to the whole transaction. We had 



292 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

been accompanied from Callao, by a beautiful little her- 
maphrodite brig called the Macedonian. It was said that 
Cochrane had robbed this brig once, of two hundred thou- 
sand dollars, but I believe it was proved that the property 
belonged to a Spanish house, which if true, the property was 
a lawful prize. This brig was bound to Manilla. A young 
midshipman, (a very excellent young gentleman) obtained 
permission from Capt. Downes, to return to the United States, 
via Manilla, and accordingly took passage in the brig. We 
afterwards heard that he had been brutally murdered at Ma- 
nilla, and the report stated that he had been cut up into 
seventy pieces. 

It appeared that just about the time that he arrived there, 
from some unknown cause, the water was thought to be poi- 
soned, but the Spaniards would have it that it had been done 
by foreigners. They accordingly sallied from their houses, 
crying, "death to the foreigners," and immediately fell upon 
every one they met, when a general massacre was the conse- 
quence, and poor Wilson, was among the victims. 

As it happened the Fourth of July occurred while we lay 
here, the following is a sketch of the manner in which it was 
passed. 

It always has been customary in our navy to give the men 
a double allowance of grog on the Fourth of July, when in 
port ; this old custom was now to be observed. Everything is 
generally pretty still during the fore part of the day, ex- 
cepting the usual firing of salutes, displaying of flags, &c. 
If it happens that the ship is in a port where there are but 
few or no Americans, the festival is then confined to the offi- 
cers and crews. The former of wnich, however, always con- 
trive to have a good dinner, if it can be procured from the 
shore, and plenty of something good to wash it down with. 
It happened that all these things could be obtained here. 
The wardroom officers invited the captain to dine with them. 
The midshipmen were also well provided with everything for 
having a good time. 

Dinner hour in the wardroom was at 4 o'clock P. M. 
Capt. Downes left the table at 5, and retired to his cabin, as 
he drank no wines or any kind of spirituous liquors, proba- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 29 



Q 



bly concluding from what preparations he saw, that there was 
to be a considerable business done in that line ; and fearing 
that his presence might possibly retard the " flow of soul/' 
very generously retired ; and thus leaving no obstacle to this 
convivial celebration of the glorious 4th. 

At about sunset, the wine began to do its work ; loud 
" hip, hip, hurrah's " were frequent and husky. The mid- 
shipmen too, were going it in grand style. Fragments of songs, 
mutilated toasts, loud calling from one side of the steerage 
'to the other, gave full evidence of the patriotism that per- 
vaded this all-important class of naval officers, and there 
were some fine fellows among them too. 

The seamen were not idle neither, and although they had 
not dined on roast beef and plum pudding, yet the plen- 
tiful supply of good old rye whiskey, which they had stored 
up for the occasion, was fully adequate for raising a powerful 
pressure of steam, which for the present was only let off in 
small quantities, through the upper valve, by songs and 
cheers. By nine o'clock at night, I verily believe that there 
were but few sober souls in the ship. The captain was one, 
and your humble servant was another. He was a regular 
teetotaller, using no intoxicating drinks, and on such an oc- 
casion we must overlook any little improprieties among offi- 
cers which at any other time would be highly reprehen- 
sible, and perhaps might result in serious consequences. 

One midshipman came up with his coat off, squaring away 
for a fight, and yelling like a mad bull. With some consid- 
erable difficulty I succeeded in getting him below. All 
hands were now engaged in one general fight on the gun- 
deck. The master-at-arms, ship's coporal, and sergeant-of- 
marines were drunk and not able to make exertion to quell 
the noise. I took my seat, on a shot box on the half deck, 
and there heartily enjoyed the fun. The tumult had now 
become quite serious. I saw the captain go from his cabin 
door forward among the men. I then arose from my seat 
and followed him along on the other side, and when abreast 
the berth deck hatchway, was obliged to stop. He had 
taken the precaution however, before leaving his cabin, to 
take off his epaulets, so that in the dark he was not recog- 



294 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

nized. I kept quite near him, but on the other side of the 
hatchway. Directly an Irish marine that had just come out 
of a tight, came up to him, squaring away : 

" And wid ye like to take a crack wid me, ye spalpeen, 
ye." 

It was very dark, and of course the fellow did not know 
who he was talking to. Capt. Downes just turned round 
and went aft, and I also took my old seat again. Sleep for 
that night was out of the question. My messmates were all 
sewed up, and I think upon the whole, that it was the most 
interesting Fourth of July that I had ever passed. But next 
day all was right again ; everything went on as usual, quiet 
and harmonious. 

Having got through with our business at San Bias, we 
sailed for a port called Moliendo, a very small place com- 
municating with the city of Arequipa. There is no settle- 
ment at this place, save only a few Indian huts, and probably 
about one hundred and fifty souls, who live principally by 
fishing. Their mode of catching fish is somewhat singular, 
having no boats or canoes, but instead of which, they take 
two large seal skins, and make them perfectly air tight ; 
they then blow them full of air and confine them together 
in the shape of the letter A, with a cross piece in the niiddle 
and at 'the bottom. They then have a pole about six feet 
long, with a round piece of wood secured at each end, and 
kneeling on the middle cross piece, with this paddle, they 
make these (boltszas) fly over the water, never mind how 
rouMi it is. The fishing line is made of the fibre of some 
kind of bark, which, however, is very strong. The hook is 
a piece of bone or shell, with a very sharp point. They go 
out into the open sea, not far from land, and when they have 
reached the fishing ground, secure their paddles, then 
coil the line upon their right hand, holding the hook in 
their left, with much dexterity throw the whole out in a 
straight line, then commence hauling in as fast as 
possible, and in almost every case they hook a tine fish, weigh- 
ing from four to ten pounds, which they throw into a small 
net attached to the boltsza. The surf rolls in on the beach 
in the harbor full twelve feet high, and it is really amusing 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 295 

to see the litttle Indian children of both sexes, run and dive 
through this almost perpendicular wall of water, and come 
out on the other side, then wait for the next roller to 
bring them in on its crest, and then slide down upon the 
beach again. There is a Roman Catholic Jesuit here, who 
appears to be a well educated and excellent man. He has a 
bamboo sehoolhouse erected on a hill near by, overlook- 
ing the harbor. This building answers for both sehoolhouse 
and church. He invited me to be present at school hours ; so 
I accompanied him up, and we got to the school just as they 
were about to take their dinner, — each one bringing 
their own, which consisted of a dried fish, and a bunch of 
bananas. And before a morsel of food went into their 
mouths, they dropped on their knees, and with eyes uplifted, 
repeated, Gracios Dios — Thank God, and then went cheer- 
fully to their dinner. The compensation to this good man 
was one egg a week, which was brought by each scholar 
every Friday. There were about forty children, chiefly 
boys, and entirely naked. The letters were pasted upon 
a small flat board ; and the Jesuit told me that they were 
all bright scholars and behaved remarkably well. The reason 
why so few girls attend the school is, that they are generally 
wanted at home to assist their mothers in pounding corn, 
taking care of the younger ones, &c. And besides, it is not 
thought to be indispensably necessary for a woman to have 
an education, as they are generally looked upon as a sort of 
drudge, made only for servitude ! ' 



CH APTE R XIV. 

Devotion, — Compensation, — Mode of teaching, — Females not educated, — 
Prepare to paint ship, — Mix paint, — Propensity for whiskey, — Rather 
dangerous gratification, — Money, — Comes on board,— Holders, — Temp- 
tation, — Cut open a sack, — Steal the money, — Confined in irons, — 
Punishment. — Jim Innis, — How he was flogged, — Further punish- 
ment, — Sail for Callao, — Arrival, — Prisoners in the castle impatient, — 
Death, — Joy at seeing the Frigate, — Their liberation, — Narrow escape 
of a prisoner, — Cochrane's wrath at the cutting out affair, — Pleasing 
manner in which the news was received at Callao, — Repair several 
merchant ships, — Receive my pay on shore, — Stratagem to secure the 
money, — Successful in getting on board the ship, — Visit to Lima, — 
Hotel", — No sleeping room, — Good supper, — Midshipman, robbed, — 
Drunken priests, — Uproarious conduct, — landlord afraid to interfere, 
fearing he should lose their blessing — People wish a change in the 

fovernment, — Ladies all patriots, — Visit the Cathedral, — Description — 
ingular manner of treating the dead, — Return to Callao, — Large 
amount of specie on board the Frigate, — Sail for Valparaiso, — Some- 
thing about the Baron, — Improvement in Valparaiso, — Murder of an 
old blacksmith, — Roguery, — Death of a lieutenant, — Pirates, — Sail 
for home, — Stop at Rio Janeiro, — Singular looking savages,— Visit an 
orange plantation, — Politeness of a Portuguese lady, — Landing slaves 
from a slaver, — Feeding them, — Sail for Boston, — Arrival, — Married, — 
Settle for life, — Commendable freak of a lieutenant, — Remarks. 

When we arrived, a messenger was dispatched to Arequipa, 
to acquaint the merchants of our arrival, also to request them 
to be expeditious in getting their money on board the frigate. 
We expected to remain here at least twenty days. The climate 
"being exceedingly dry. it was concluded to paint ship, although 
it was an uncomfortable place to lie in, on account of a very 
heavy swell continually coming in from sea, which kept the 
ship rolling, almost guns under. 

As the paint department was under my charge, was ordered 
to have verdigris enough mixed to paint the inside of the bul- 
warks on the spar-deck. I took a clean beef barrel, and put 
in a sufficient quantity of verdigris, and oil enough to mix it; 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 297 

but having no spirits of turpentine, as a substitute put in five 
gallons of whiskey. It was stirred up and well mixed to be 
ready for use on the following morning. At about eleven 
o'clock, I heard on the forward part of the gun-deck, a 
dreadful groaning with distressing efforts to vomit. There 
appeared to be much commotion among the men, I took no 
more notice of it and went to sleep again. Next morning I 
found out the cause of the trouble. These fellows who had 
been taken so suddenly ill, had seen me put the whiskey in 
the paint, and having a sufficient knowledge of chemistry to 
know that whiskey was one thing and verdigris another, and 
of course, after the heavier had settled, the lighter body 
would remain above, perfectly homogeneous. On the strength 
of this known fact, after the hammocks were piped down, and 
all was still, these "jolly Jack tars w stood around the paint 
barrel, anxiously waiting the time for nature to do her work ; 
but being rather impatient, as the old dame was not to be 
hurried, they concluded to taste, so in went one tin pot, and 
then another, and instead of tasting it, when the tin pot was 
once at the mouth, in consequence of its having oil with it, 
the good stuff was so slippery, that a good half pint went 
down each throat, before the pot was removed. 

There must have been a great many at this banquet, for in 
the morning there was not a half a pint of whiskey left out 
of the five gallons. I made no complaint about it, but drew 
from the purser's steward five gallons more, and commenced 
using the paint. About the time we had got through paint- 
ing, the money began to arrive from Arequipa ; we could 
see the mules coming over the mountain paths, like a string 
of ants, it came in green hide sacks, each holding about $2,000 
and each mule carrying two sacks, there were also cakes of 
virgin silver, each weighing $1,500. This money was stowed 
in the spirit room. 

There are always men belonging to the hold called " hold- 
ers," one of which is appointed captain, or, as he is called, 
" captain of the hold," and their duty is most generally be- 
low, getting out beef and pork, serving out water, keeping 
the cable tiers in order, &c. Then over them is placed an 
officer, sometimes a midshipman, who is called master-mate of 



298 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the hold. On this officer devolves the sole charge of the 
spirit room, which is a part of the hold. No naked light is 
ever permitted here excepting when it is empty. It was here 
that the money was stowed. Six men were employed in pack- 
ing away the sacks ; three were in at the further end stowing 
and the others were passing the bags to them. Now they 
were all among the whiskey casks, and the smell of the good 
stuff, had such a powerful effect upon their nerves, that by 
some means, best known to an old tar, they got a sip of this 
ever potent essence of life, death and mischief, and now they 
were all ripe for anything. 

" I say, Jack," says Jim Innis, in a low voice, (the mas- 
ter's mate being on the gun-deck striking down the sacks.) 
" hand us in your knife here. These here dollars belong to 
the bloody Spaniards, and we might as well have a few as not, 
to pay us for our trouble in working here in this thundering 
hot hole." 

A knife was passed in, and a sack cut, and all helped them- 
selves. They stowed the dollars about their persons in the 
most ingenious manner, notwithstanding all this caution, they 
managed to get drunk, and fool-like, one fellow came up on 
the berth deck, and began to show his money. It soon 
reached the master's mates ear, and soon it reached the first 
lieutenant. They were all brought on the half deck, a 
sentinel placed over them, when they were all searched, and 
Jim Innis was so drunk that he was brought legs and arms 
by four men, and when they laid him down, the dollars rolled 
from him in all directions. These fellows had, I think $192 
between them, but the funniest of all was, that one of them 
positively declared to Mr. Maury that he had brought the 
dollars with him, and that they were the remains " of his last 
voyage's pay," but poor fellow, he little thought that the date 
of the dollar would betray him, for the dollars found on him 
were new, right from the mint, and dated 1820, and we left 
Boston in 1818. Notwithstanding these glaring facts, the 
fellow still persisted that he had brought the dollars with him. 
They were all put in double irons and under charge of a sen- 
tinel, were kept in confinement twenty days, then brought up 
for punishment. Five of them recieved seventy-five lashes 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 299 

each, but he who cut the bag was to receive a greater pun- 
ishment, and according to the testimony of the others, this 
was Jim. He denied it in a most emphatic manner, appealing 
to the Higher Power to confirm the truth of his assertion. 
He was stripped and seized up, but his back presented an 
awful sight. He was with us in the Mediterranean during the 
Algerine war, was on board the Guerriere when she engaged 
the Algerine frigate, and during the action, the gun to which 
he belonged, (the forward gun on the main-deck starboard- 
side,) burst, killing and wounding all the gun's crew. Jim 
was among the latter, he was sadly burnt from the neck to 
the hips, and even now, nearly four years after the accident ; 
the flesh was quite tender. 

Under these circumstances, Capt. Downes could not flog 
him on the back, therefore he must receive his punishment on 
what is usually denominated the seat of honor. In this case 
the culprit is not seized up to the gangway, but is brought 
over a carronade in the following manner. Standing at the 
breech, he bends over towards the muzzle; his wrists are se- 
cured, one on each side the gun, to the forward axeltree, and 
his legs, to the gun tackle bolts in the carriage. His trow- 
sers are then pulled down, thus presenting to the boatswain's 
mate, a prominent field for operation. And one lick with the 
cat here, is worse than a dozen on the back. When all was 
ready, says the captain to him : 

"M)w sir, did you cut the bag?" 

" Oh, no, sir, I did not." 

" Well then, who did? Boatswain's mate go on with 
him." 

And at the first lick, Jim sung out nobly, and fairly made 
the gun shake. 

" Oh, now, my dear, good Capt. Downes, don't lick me any 
more, and I will tell you all." 

" Well let us know who did it ?" 

11 Oh, dear ! just cast me loose, and then I'll tell you." 

" Give it to him, boatswain's mate." 

And obeying the order, put on a half dozen. The blood 
began to run and the flesh to quiver like jelly, and Jim's 



300 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

shrieks and cries fairly made the pigs look aft to see what 
was going on. 

" Now, who cut the bag ?" 

Poor Jim had nothing more to say on that subject, but 
continued to beg most earnestly. He took the other half 
dozen and was let off. Now Jim was a short, chunky, fun- 
ny sort of a fellow, and notwithstanding the pain he had, and 
was still suffering, after he was clear of the gun, he turned 
round among his shipmates, and with a half smile, dryly re- 
marked : 

" I've got off with four dozen less than them other beggars 
after all." 

Besides the flogging, they were compelled to carry a 321b. 
shot, with 321bs. of chain attached to their legs, and a wooden 
yoke about the neck four feet long and nine inches broad, and 
on it was painted, in several places, in large letters, THIEF. 
The bail and chain they were to wear during the pleasure 
of the captain, were also to mess together under one of 
the gun-deck ladders, and to do the sweeping on the gun-deck. 

We were now on our way to Callao, and arrived there, I 
think about the first of May, 1821. 

When we passed St. Lorenzo, we saw the O'Higgins at 
anchor, passed them however without any further notice, ran 
up and took our former moorings. It will be remembered 
that when we left Callao, five months before, we gave the 
prisoners at the Castle encouragement that we should return in 
three months, and notwithstanding that their condition had 
been made quite comfortable through the generosity of our of- 
ficers and crew, some of them were nearly distracted by the de- 
lay, ungenerously charging Capt. Downes with neglect, if not 
of gross deception. They had numbered the time by making 
a notch each day with a knife, and when the number had 
reached ninety, one of them was permitted to go up to the 
tower to watch the arrival of the frigate, but after ten, fifteen, 
and twenty days had elapsed, and no Macedonian in sight, 
they began to despond, and some that were sick when we left, 
and had been kept alive by the fond hope of being liberated, 
when they found that the ship did not come, died in despair. 
Their stock of comforts also began to fail, but what was worse 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 301 

than all, sweet hope had spread her pinions, and was about 
to leave them forever. 

One morning just as the sun was "peeping o'er the hills," 
the sentinel on the terrace cried out. " Mi? a, Mira, frigata 
Americano.'''' In an instant all were up, some wringing their 
hands, and others crying like children, and all for joy. Those 
that were able to get from their sick quarters, crawled out, 
looking as though they had just risen from their graves. 
Although Capt. Downes had a great deal of business to at- 
tend to, and much of it of a highly important character, yet 
the first item to which he gave his earnest attention, was that 
of liberating these unfortunate prisoners. The Viceroy, 
agreeable to his promise, was willing to give them up if Capt. 
Downes would become responsible that they should not re- 
enter the Chilian service. How he managed this part of the 
negotiation, I was never informed. They were however, all 
released and brought on board the Macedonian. And as 
I have before stated, there were many English and Irish 
among them, and those who were able, obtained employment 
on board the merchant ships in the harbor. There were three 
or four among them, whose constitutions had been broken 
down by their suffering while in prison, who died on board 
the Macedonian. The Americans all remained with us, un- 
til we arrived at Valparaiso. There was one American 
among the prisoners, who had been severely wounded on 
board the Chilian brig, Maypo, in the action with the Span- 
ish ship by whom they were captured. A shot cut his bowels 
out, and broke his arm at the same time. Through the skill 
of the Spanish doctor he was cured ; and while a prisoner, 
confined to an iron bedstead. He is now an enterprising 
and wealthy merchant in Boston. 

We found many merchant ships lying here, both English 
and American, notwithstanding the blockade. 

Capt. Downes was requested to receive a very large 
amount of specie on board his ship, both from the shore and 
from the ships in the harbor. As Gen. San Martin with his 
vast army were still encamped near the walls of Lima, and 

* These scenes were described to us after they had got on board the 
frigate. 



302 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

it was generally expected that the city would fall. This 
was why the merchants and others were so anxious to get 
their money away. It was also thought that Cochrane had 
his eye on the merchantmen, who he knew were taking on 
board large sums of money. And our coming in at this 
time, was another very fortunate circumstance for them, as 
Cochrane, no doubt, felt quite sore at the loss of his prize, 
which we so neatly took from him, a few months previous. 
There was an American shipmaster here, who had been 
several months waiting the arrival of his ship from China, 
and was here when the Esmaralda was cut out. He told us 
a very amusing story originating from our adventure at 
Guamas. 

When Cochrane first heard of it, his rage knew no bounds. 
Capt. Guise was immediately arrested, and the command of 
the ship was taken from him. The poor ship-keeper was 
sentenced to ten years imprisonment, and the twelve marines 
most cruelly flogged. Guise was subsequently liberated, and 
his command restored ; the sentence against the officer re- 
voked, and when the story first reached Callao, it caused 
much amusement. The highest encomiums were passed upon 
the chivalrous conduct of Capt. Downes, in managing the 
affair with so much wisdom. 

Cochrane, after he had somewhat cooled off, would send 
for the ship-keeper, and make him recapitulate the whole 
story ; and all this, while he w T as confined to his cot, in con- 
sequence of the gunshot wound in his thigh. While the 
man was telling his story, Cochrane would burst out into an 
immoderate fit of laughter at the Yankee trick ; at the same 
time adding, " That Downes is a keen fellow T , and I have al- 
ways felt afraid of him ever since he has been on the coast. 
He has been the means of taking many thousands of pounds 
from me." 

Many of the merchant ships were somewhat out of repair, 
and applied to Capt. Downes for the use of his carpenters. 
As there was not much carpenter work to be done to the 
frigate, he complied with their requests. I had made a new 
spar-deck capstan on our passage down the coast, and had 
put new bottoms to several of our boats ; made up all the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 303 

spars that were required, and now was somewhat at leisure. 
I took my carpenters on board the vessels that required 
our service, finished the jobs up in good shape, and charged 
three dollars per day, all round. I paid the men one dollar 
and fifty cents each, and was allowed by Capt. Downes to 
retain the remainder for my own use. 

I stripped and coppered a small English brig, while lying 
off in the harbor. We hove her down by a long-boat filled 
with water ; and having no proper purchases for the occa- 
sion, we used common tackles, with luffs, and by a little 
management, got along firstrate. My bill was two hundred 
and fifty dollars, which the captain declared lie could not 
pay me on board ; I must receive it on shore. This I remon- 
strated against, telling him what he knew before, the diffi- 
culty and danger of bringing dollars from the shore. But 
on his agreeing to pay me a premium for receiving it on 
shore, I consented to run the risk. The captain then gave 
me an order on a merchant who lived a half mile from the 
outer gate. Next morning, I obtained liberty from Mr. 
Maury to go for my money, and previous to leaving the ship, 
put on a pair of white duck trowsers, a blue jacket, and a 
black silk kerchief round my neck, and made myself look 
as much sailor-like, and as much un-officer-like as I could, 
and still retain my respectable appearance as carpenter of 
the frigate. When I got on shore, I commenced recon- 
noitering the soldiers, and fixing my plan for a safe retreat 
with my money, if I should succeed in getting through the 
gates with it. I passed out through the gates to the mer- 
chant's house, presented the order, which he immediately ac- 
cepted, and asked me if I was aware of the risk I should 
run in getting to my boat with so much money, as nobody 
was allowed to have more than twenty-five dollars on their 
person at one time, and one dollar nu*re than that sum would 
be confiscated. I told him that I had concluded to run the 
risk ; so he counted out, I believe, two hundred and twenty- 
eight dollars, and then assisted me in stowing it away about 
my person. First, I took the kerchief from my neck, tied 
up fifty dollars in it, and put it on again. I then put a hun- 
dred in the flap of my shirt, and secured it close to my body ; 



304 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

then put twelve in eaeli shoe, and twenty-five in my trowsers, 
tied up in a piece of cloth given ine by the merchant, and 
twenty-six I carried in my jacket pockets. This was the 
manner in which I disposed of my money as near as I can 
remember ; and before I left the house, the merchant opened 
his door, and gave a look round, in order to see if the coast 
was clear ; " for," said he, " every one that comes here, is 
watched by the police, as they know that they come here for 
money." Returning, he said to me, " There are two fellows 
yonder, that may stop you ; but if you keep right along, 
and don't look at them, it may be that they will not no- 
tice you." I had not proceeded more than fifty yards from 
the door, when they both came up to me, and demanded in 
Spanish if I had money ; they took hold of the bosom of 
my shirt, and tore it open, when, their eyes resting on a cru- 
cifix which I had there, closed my shirt bosom again, saying : 
" hieno cliristiano, vamos" go, Christian. I had nothing 
more to fear, until I reached the first gate, guarded by a sol- 
dier, with a drawn sword, whose duty was to prevent money 
from passing through the gate. When the two fellows 
clenched me, I thought I was gone ; but now I began to think 
I was brought up all standing, sure enough. But "go ahead ' 
was my motto, so when within fifty yards of the soldier, I 
feio-ned drunk, reeling; and stagwring; along;, and when close to 
the gate, the fellow stepped back and let me pass. When well 
clear of him, I assumed my equilibrium again, and kept 
along rather cautiously, until within about fifty yards of the 
next gate. 

As I had got so cleverly through the first, I adopted the 
same plan, and those around the gate began to laugh at the 
drunken sailor, and let me through without any trouble. 

The coast was now clear, until I reached the landing-place, 
which was about one hundred rods from the last gate. ^ I 
have often read of devotees doing penance by walking with 
dried peas in their shoes. I think if they should try to walk 
with twelve dollars in each shoe, over a rough pavement, 
they would very soon decide that the latter was the greatest 
punishment ; for the effort to keep the shoe upon the foot, 
and then so to tread as to prevent the dollars from jingling, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 305 

was certainly very painful. But as I had begun the haz- 
ardous undertaking, 1 was bound to go through with it. 
When I reached the landing-place, to my great relief our 
second cutter lay there filling the water breakers. Here 
was a soldier whose sole duty was to prevent the exporta- 
tion of specie ; he had authority to search persons or bag- 
gage, if he suspected any attempt to violate the law. Now 
here I was, wrapped up in money, and standing on dollars ; 
and my sole object was to get safely into that boat, and 
then 1 should be all right. But how shall 1 get into her ? 
that 's the question. She lies ten feet below the top of the 
wharf, and 1 must get into her here, because if she hauls 
up to the steps, 1 shall surely be searched, and if I attempt 
to climb down by the stones, my shoes will come off, and 
I shall lose my money. I saw that the soldier had his eye 
on me, so I showed no desire to get into the boat. At pres- 
ent, Mr. Eagle, the midshipman who understood the matter, 
held on a few minutes, but very soon some gentlemen came 
to the landing, who for a few moments, drew the attention 
of the soldier ; in an instant, I whipped the dollars out of 
my shoes, into my bosom, and was into the boat in less than 
half a minute, and Mr. Eagle shoved immediately off, and 
1 got safely on board with my money. 

I had not yet been up to Lima, which lies about six miles 
from Callao. In company with four midshipmen, we left the 
ship for a visit to that renowned city, obtained horses at 
Callao, and got off at about 10 o'clock, A. M. The road is 
beautifully shaded with tall and stately trees ; the entrance 
to the city is truly magnificent. At the time that we were 
there (1821) there was but one respectable hotel in the city, 
which was called Casa Blanca, or white house. It was a large 
establishment, and much frequented by the fashionable por- 
tion of the inhabitants, who came there for its excellent 
coffee. It was also a great resort for the priests, who often 
remained until one or two o'clock, in the morning, playing 
billiards, and drinking wine. On our arrival I went to the 
landlord and requested him to give us a room, but this he 
could not do as he kept no spare lodging rooms in the 
house ; but said he would provide a sleeping place for us, 

T 



306 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

where we could all be together. I requested him to get us 
a supper cooked in English style, as we did not like the 
Spanish mode. He gave us a fine supper of chickens, eggs, 
and superior coffee ; and a dessert of delicious grapes, and 
green figs. We deposited our money with him for safety, 
for we were told that the city abounded in rogues, thieves 
and murderers. One of our young gentlemen wished very 
much to take a walk after supper just round in the neigh- 
borhood of the hotel. We tried to dissuade him from croins: 
out, as it was quite dark, and he might lose his way or get 
into some trouble. Our remonstrances were in vain. He 
wore his dirk, and had eight dollars in his pocket, and in 
less than an hour he returned, accompanied by a soldier. 
He had been robbed of everything except shirt and panta- 
loons, and would probably have been murdered, had he not been 
rescued by this soldier. The account that he gave of himself 
was, that before he had reached the Square, a fellow came 
up to him, accosting him in Spanish which of course he did 
not understand. He then stepped round the corner of a house 
and beckoned the young man to follow him, which he very 
imprudently did. The fellow then commenced stripping him, 
holding a long knife in his hand, which lie threatened to 
put into his bowels, if he said a word. After he had 
got all except his shirt and pantaloons, the guard came 
along, when he threw himself among them, claiming their 
protection. The thief made his escape, and our young hero 
got safety back to the hotel, that is, as far as his life was 
concerned. 

It was now past ten o'clock, and we felt sleepy. I went 
to our landlord, and requested him to show us a place where 
we could sleep. He said, he " was very sorry that be could 
not accommodate us, yet ; but when those priests are done 
witli the billiard room, I will put some mattresses upon the 
tables for you, and you can close the doors, and secure 
them, then you can sleep comfortably." We waited with 
gome considerable degree of patience until the clock struck 
twelve ; felt as though we could wait no longer, went to- 
wards the billiard room, to see what the prospect was 
for obtaining sleep. When near the door, we heard the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 307 

smashing of glass, and a terrible uproar. We however, 
opened it, and went in, and such a scene ! Here were about 
twenty bareheaded priests, and jolly fat friars; all blind 
drunk ; throwing broken tumblers and decanters at each 
other, and making a most hideous noise; the poor af- 
frighted landlord dare not say a word to them for fear 
of losing their blessing ! It was two o'clock in the morn- 
ing before we could go to sleep, or rather to lie down, as 
sleep was out of the question, with the noise of the watch- 
men's bells outside, and the talking over the scenes of eve- 
ning, left us a small chance for sleep. 

We however made out to get a short nap before morning. 
At sunrise we all roused out, took a light breakfast, mounted 
our horses, and commenced our tour through the city, Not- 
withstanding it was on the very eve of capture by Gen. San 
Martin, everything wore a gay and cheerful aspect. We 
were told that the ladies of Lima, with but very few excep- 
tions, were in favor of, and highly desirous for a change in 
the government ; and such lengths had they gone in demon- 
stration of their republican principles, that many ladies in 
the higher circles, had prepared richly embroidered silk ban- 
ners, which they intended to present to San Martin on his 
entering the city. 

I believe it to be a remarkable fact, which I have ascer- 
tained, as the result of my own observations during the course 
of my travels, that women prefer a repiblican form of govern- 
ment to that of a monarchy ; and yet, how many countries 
there are upon the face of the earth, and which rank among 
the civilized too, where the voice of woman, or her opinion, 
however patriotic it may be, is entirely disregarded. There 
is one privilege however, that she enjoys both in England 
and in the United States, which no one can deprive her of ; 
she can ivrite, and the world will never know the amount of 
its indebtedness to female writers, and to female philan 
thropy. 

The reader will please excuse my getting off the track, 
and I will go on with Lima. 

Our first visit was to the Cathedral, whose massive columns 
elaborately carved, and richly plated with silver, ponderous 



308 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

candlesticks, ancient and valuable pictures, rich and very 
costly crystal chandeliers, Madonna's glistening with precious 
stones, and many other things, rare and beautiful, render- 
ed the interior of this Cathedral the most magnificent place 
I had ever seen. 

We next visited the great cemetery, covering a large 
square of ground, and surrounded by a high wall ; and in 
this wall were recesses, or chambers, with shelves on three 
sides, on which the coffins were placed. These chambers 
were entirely open to the area, so that the passer-by could 
easily be reminded of what he must soon become ; that is, if 
he happened to be rich. 

But there was another process adopted for the poor, or for 
those who could not afford to hire a house for their remains, 
after they were dead. This we also had an opportunity of 
witnessing, while rambling round this final resting-place. 
The body was put into the grave entirely naked. It was 
then covered with quicklime, and immediately two stout ne- 
groes commenced with large pounders, pounding the body 
and the lime into one complete mass. They then threw in 
more lime, then filled up the grave with earth ; so that if a 
poor fellow should happen to be buried alive, which has 
sometimes occurred, he would stand a poor chance of getting 
out again. 

We got through with our sight-seeing at about four o'clock, 
P. M., and returned to Callao, settled for our horses, and 
went on board the ship. And I am certain, that our unfortu- 
nate young companion returned a wiser, but a "robbed" 
man, and will ever after be cautious how he goes out to 
" look round" on a very dark night, and in a Spanish port. 
We had now taken on board, lots of dollars, so that our 
ship sat as deep in the water as a collier, and being all ready, 
sailed for Valparaiso, where we arrived all well, and found 
the frigate Constellation, waiting for our arrival ; and now 
we were to get all ready for going round Cape Horn. 

It will be recollected that the Baron, to whom Captain 
Downes showed so much kindness, and who received so much 
attention from every officer in the ship, besides large sums 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 309 

of money, and many valuable articles, which he was to de- 
liver to their several friends in the United States, this 
fellow it was now ascertained was a gross impostor, and a 
notorious swindler. Perhaps some may smile at the credu- 
lity manifested by Capt. Downes, in extending to him the 
hospitalities of his ship, besides doing everything to make 
him happy. The confidence with which these keepsakes were 
intrusted to him, together with the readiness manifested in 
cashing his draft ; the respect shown him on all occasions, 
no one doubting his character ; his deportment, being gen- 
tlemanly and respectful, any derogatory intimations would 
be immediately silenced. But let only those smile who are 
blunted against the finest sensibilities of our nature, and 
who do not appreciate those noble traits of sympathy which 
formed so prominent a part of the character of Captain 
Downes, and which was so fully developed by every officer 
on board the ship. Here was what all supposed to be an 
Austrian officer of high rank, he had the confidence of the 
Supreme Director, at Chili, and also of many of the first of- 
ficers of the Republic. He was introduced to Capt. Downes 
as such, and had evidently been very sick, but was suffi- 
ciently convalescent, when introduced to Capt. Downes, to 
accept his kind invitation to accompany him during a short 
cruise down the coast. Now where was there any room for 
suspecting either his sincerity or honor ? If we go upon 
the principle of rejecting every man until we have proved 
him, there would be but little commerce among men. No 
sensible man will withhold the hand of sympathy from what 
appears to be a deserving object on account of having been 
deceived once, twice, or even three times. The obloquy be- 
longs to the deceiver, and not to the deceived. We will now 
let the Baron " slide," and commence another subject. 

There was an evident improvement in Valparaiso since 
we first arrived there. Many who had set up small places 
of entertainment and boarding houses, had become wealthy, 
and owners of large establishments. Many mechanics who 
came there as adventurers, had now become possessed of much 
property. There was an old German blacksmith, who com- 
menced in one corner of an old building, who did some iron 



310 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

work for our ship. He had no family, and was somewhat 
inclined to be miserly ; he lived in his blacksmith's shop, 
and kept his money in an iron safe, under his bed. This old 
fellow had accumulated a large sum, which he kept in gold ; 
intending, when he had got enough, to return to Germany. 
One morning he was found with his throat cut from ear to 
ear, and his safe was gone ! Valparaiso was overrun with 
ninaway convicts from Botany Bay, and there were many 
precious villains among them. Some were so gentleman- 
like in their appearance, and so fascinating in their man- 
ners, that they could, and actually did, " deceive the very 
elect." 

There was a ship here from China, with a valuable cargo 
of China goods ; the captain was a pious man, and somewhat 
advanced in years. He was one day introduced to a gentle- 
man on shore, purporting to be a merchant of Santiago. 
He managed to get an invitation and accompanied the cap- 
tain on board the ship. When in the cabin, he commenced 
overhauling the captain's library, appearing to be much 
pleased with the collection ; observing at the same time, that 
he had a valuable work, consisting of twelve volumes, which 
he would be most happy to present to him, as an addition to 
his library. To this act of generosity our unsuspecting 
captain very properly responded. The conversation now 
turned upon the cargo. Having understood that the cap- 
tain had a well assorted adventure, was desirous of seeing 
some of the articles, with a view of purchasing. The cap- 
tain brought out a variety of crape shawls, and several 
pieces of rich China silks, all of which were pronounced ex- 
cellent, and well adapted to the Santiago market. Our mer- 
chant made a considerable purchase, and the goods were to 
be sent on shore to his address, where he would then pay the 
money. He then went on shore, taking leave in the politest 
manner. The goods, according to appointment, were sent 
as directed ; and in order to relieve the suspense of the 
reader, I will say that he never saw either merchant, money, 
or goods again; and as the captain tells the story himself, 
we must believe it to be true. 

Before sailing for home, there were necessarily some inter- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 311 

♦ 

change of officers and seamen, and among the officers who 
were ordered to our ship from the frigate Constellation, was 
a young lieutenant, John B. Cambreling, who, for some 
slight misdemeanor, had been ordered home. This had such 
an effect upon his sensibilities, that he became raving crazy, 
and expired in great apparent agony a very few days after 
he had joined the ship. 

During our absence from Valparaiso, there had been two 
noted pirates arrested, who were put on board the English 
frigate Andromache, Capt. Sheriff, for safe keeping, until the 
return of the Macedonian. They were then handed overdo 
Capt. Downes, who immediately recognized them as old ship- 
mates. They were properly secured, in order to be taken to 
the United States for trial. The particulars of the act of 
piracy for which they were arrested, were as follows : 

When the U. S. frigate Essex, Com. Porter, was cruising 
in the Pacific, it will be remembered that she captured several 
English whaleships ; and on board one of them, these two 
men made part of the prize crew ; and in consequence of 
having manned a number of prizes, Capt. Porter could not 
spare as many men and officers, as the prizes actually needed ; 
and on board the prize where these two men were put, there 
were but three officers. 

The crew became mutinous, rose upon the officers, and I 
believe killed one, confined the others, and took possession of 
the ship. She was subsequently re-taken by an English man- 
of-war, and carried into Sydney, New South Wales ; and on 
a fair representation of the affair to government, these men, 
being Americans, were arrested and sent to Valparaiso ; 
while the others, being Englishmen, were retained at Syd- 
ney. These particulars I ascertained from one of our crew, 
who was on board the Essex at the time when the above took 
place. And it may be truly said, even in this case, that the 
" way of the transgressor is hard." 

These two unfortunate men were confined for some time 
at Sydney ; they were then sent to Valparaiso, confined sev- 
eral weeks on board the Andromache, and were now to go to 
the United States in double irons, and there to be tried for 
their lives. Many times I have gone to them in the dark, 



312 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

when off Cape Horn, while they were shivering with cold, 
carrying a pot of warm tea and other small comforts, which 
were received with tears of gratitude. They were fast wast- 
ing away, and died naturally, a short time after their arrival 
in the United States. 

We sailed from Valparaiso about the loth of March, 1821, 
stopping a few days at Rio Janeiro. While here, I had an 
opportunity of seeing about twenty strange looking Indians. 
They were part of a tribe that had been captured in the in- 
terior of Brazil, and were kept on an island under charge of 
a small guard. They were hideous looking savages, having 
a flat piece of wood, varying from four to six inches in diam- 
eter, inserted within the rim of the lower lip, and projecting 
horizontally. Another piece, and of nearly the same size in 
each ear, and kept in by the rim of the ear, giving them a 
hideous appearance. These pieces of wood, when first insert- 
ed in the lips and ears of the children, are only small plugs, 
gradually increasing in size, until by the time the individual 
arrives at maturity they are of full size. There were several 
small children and young girls among them, all of whom 
had the wooden ornaments in the several stages of progres- 
sion. Some of the children had pretty features, but entirely 
without expression ; and the old women were the most horrid 
looking creatures for human beings that I ever saw. 

The Bay of Rio Janeiro presents a beautiful panorama 
throughout the year. After visiting the Indians, we took a 
turn around the country, and stopped at a farm-house which 
was the residence of an elderly Portuguese lady. Our com- 
pany consisted of three midshipmen with myself. The old 
lady was very anxious that we should spend the afternoon 
with her, which of course we could not do, as we must be on 
board our ship by sunset. She insisted, however, on our get- 
ting up into her orange trees and helping ourselves to as 
many oranges as we could carry. We availed ourselves of 
her generous invitation, and mounted the trees. Whoever 
has had the pleasure of plucking a ripe orange from a tree 

* Full and official account will be found in the next chapter. 



> 

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bi 

CO 
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bi 
bi 



bi 
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B 
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314 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

on its native soil, can alone appreciate the luxury and de- 
liciousness of the fruit. 

On our return, we had an opportunity of seeing another 
sight, which was quite interesting, to me, at least. It was 
the landing of a cargo of slaves just arrived from the Coast 
of Africa. They looked like anything but human creatures, 
and I think that if I had ever had any doubts about the ne- 
gro belonging to our race, I am sure that such doubts would 
now be confirmed. Here were about two hundred creatures, 
their bodies hardly as thick through as a man's thigh ; their 
legs and arms like four projecting spindles, and their coun- 
tenances a perfect blank. "When landed, they were en- 
tirely naked, but immediately clothed with a shirt and a 
pair of trowsers ; that is, the males, but the females wore a 
coarse cotton frock. They were all marched into a square 
purposely fitted up for their reception. Their food, which was 
boiled beans, was carried in large copper kettles, which were 
placed in the middle of the square, a wooden spoon given to 
each with which to help themselves as well as they could. 

We sailed from Rio, and arrived at Boston about July 1, 
1821, after an absence of nearly three years. Having 
sailed sixty-seven thousand miles, during the cruise, and hav- 
ing lost thirty-four seamen and five officers by death. I now 
considered my ramblings at an end, was married and settled 
as I then thought for life. I went to work with my old mas- 
ter at his ship-yard, and had been there a few days, when 
one morning while at work on board of a brig, putting a 
plank into the deck, forward the windlass, with my back to- 
wards it, heard the men (who were at work at the windlass, 
heaving in a new mainmast,) grumble at some one who could 
not ship his handspike in time. I turned round for a moment, 
and behold, the delinquent was one of our lieutenants of 
the Macedonian, and disguised as a common laborer. I was 
amazed, not knowing what it meant. On attempting to 
speak to him he winked at me, which I at once understood. 
A few minutes afterwards he went on to the wharf, I start- 
started immediately after him, and when up with him, asked 
what all this meant. 



AUTOBIOGE APHY. 315 

Said he, " Call me Jones ; I have been watching an oppor- 
tunity to see yon alone, in order to explain it all." 

As we walked up the wharf, said he to me, again : 

" You know that a naval officer has but a small chance for 
acquiring any practical knowledge of seamanship, and I was 
determined to devote my three months furlough to the acqui- 
sition of what I call practical seamanship." He had assumed 
the name of Jones, and was entirely unknown, probably, to 
any one in Boston, except myself, and wished me to keep his 
secret faithfully, which I did, frequently visiting him at his 
boarding house as Mr. Jones, and he as frequently calling 
on me. At the expiration of his furlough he received orders 
to join another ship. He called on me before leaving Bos- 
ton, for the purpose of saying good-by. He showed me his 
tough, sunburnt hands, which certainly did him much credit. 

And if every naval officer would devote even a portion of 
their furlough to the acquisition of some practical or scien- 
tific knowledge instead of idling away the time in dull and 
insipid amusements, our Navy would boast of many more like 
a Maury, a Lynch, a Stockton, and others who are orna- 
ments to it. And the truly meritorious officer of whom I 
have been speaking, deserves the highest encomiums of praise 
even for this one act of energetic perseverance and devotion 
to his profession, in working like a common laborer, three 
months, in order to acquire that practical knowledge which 
could be obtained in no other way. He now ranks among 
the first in the navy, honored and esteemed by all who know 
him. 



CHAPTER XV. 

CAPTURE OF THE ESSEX. 

After having been nearly six years with Capt. John 
Downes, Lieut. J. M. Maury, Doctor Hoffman, and several 
other junior officers of the Essex, also a great portion of 
her surviving crew, and a short time under the command of 
Com. David Porter and Lieut. Edmund Barnwell, and have 
often visited the scene of her capture, besides many other 
incidents relating to that gallant frigate, I thought that the 
official account of her capture might be interesting to the 
reader. 

Copy of a letter from Captain Porter, to the Secretary 
of the Navy. 

Essex- Junior, at sea, July 3, 1814. 

Sir : — I have done myself the honor to address you repeat- 
edly, since I left the Delaware ; but have scarcely a hope 
that one of my letters has reached you ; therefore consider 
it necessary to give a brief history of my proceeding since 
that period. 

I sailed from the Delaware on the 27th of October, 1812, 
and repaired, with all diligence, (agreeably to instruction 
from Com. Bainbridge) to Port Praya, Fernando de Xoronho, 
and Cape Frio ; and arrived at each place on the day ap- 
pointed to meet him. On my passage from Port Praya to 
Fernando de Noronho, I captured H. B. M. packet Nocton; 
and after taking out about 11,000?. sterling in specie, sent 
her under command of Lieut. Finch, for America. I cruised 
off Rio de Janeiro, and about Cape Frio, until the 12 th Jan- 
uary, 1813, hearing frequently of the commodore, by vessels 
from Bahia. I here captured but one schooner, with hides 
and tallow. I sent her j^to Eio. The Montague, the ad- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 317 

miral's ship, being in pursuit of me, my provisions now get- 
ting short, and finding it necessary to look out for a supply, 
to enable me to meet the commodore by the 1st of April, 
off St. Helena, 1 proceeded to the Island of St. Catherines, 
(the last place of rendezvous on the coast of Brazil) as the 
most likely to supply my wants, and at the same time afford 
me that secrecy necessary to enable me to elude -the British 
ships of war on the coast, and expected there. I here could 
procure only wood, water and rum, and a few bags of flour; 
and hearing of the commodore's action with the Java, the 
capture of the Hornet by the Montague, and a considerable 
augmentation of the British force on the coast, and of sev- 
eral being in pursuit of me, I found it necessary to get to 
sea as soon as possible. I now, agreeably to the commodore's 
plan, stretched to the southward, scouring the coast as far as 
the Bio de la Plata. I heard that Buenos Ayres was in a 
state of starvation, and could not supply our wants ; and 
that the government of Montevideo was very inimical to us. 
The commodore's instructions now left it discretionary with 
me what course to pursue, and I determined on following 
that which had not only met his approbation, but the appro- 
bation of the then Secretary of the Navy. I accordingly 
shaped my course for the Pacific ; and after suffering greatly 
from short allowance of provisions and heavy gales off Cape 
Horn, (for which my ship and men were illy provided) I ar- 
rived at Valparaiso on the 14th of March, 1813. I here 
took in as much jerked beef, and other provisions, as my 
ship would conveniently stow, and run down the coast of Chili 
and Peru ; in this track, I fell in with a Peruvian corsair, 
which had on board 2-1 Americans as prisoners, the crews of 
2 whaleships, which she had taken on the coast of Chili. 
The captain informed me, that as the allies of Great Britain, 
they would capture all they should meet with, in expectation 
of a war between Spain and the United States. I conse- 
quently threw all his guns and ammunition into the sea, 
liberated the Americans, wrote a respectful letter to the 
Viceroy, explaining the cause of my proceedings, which I 
delivered to her captain. I then proceeded for Lima, and 
re-captured one of the vessels as she was entering the port. 



318 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

From thence I proceeded for the Gallapagos islands, where I 
cruised from the 17th April, until the 3d October, 1813 ; dur- 
ing which time I touched only once on the coast of America, 
which was for the purpose of procuring a supply of fresh 
water, as none is to be found among those islands, which are, 
perhaps, the most barren and desolate of any known. 

While among this group, I captured the following British 
ships, employed chiefly in the spermaceti whale fishery, 
viz : — 

LETTERS OF MARQUE. 





Tons. 


Men. 


Guns. 


Pierced for, 


Montezuma, 


270 


21 


2 




Policy, 


175 


26 


10 


18 


Georgiana 


280 


25 


6 


18 


Greenwich, 


338 


25 


10 


20 


Atlantic, 


353 


24: 


8 


20 


Eose, 


220 


21 


8 


20 


Hector, 


270 


25 


11 


20 


Catherine, 


270 


29 


8 


18 


Seringapatam, 


357 


31 


14 


26 


Charlton, 


274 


21 


10 


18 


New Zealander, 


259 


23 


8 


13 


Sir A. Hammond, 


301 
3367 


31 


12 


18 




302 


107 





As some of those ships were captured by boats, and others 
by prizes, my officers and men had several opportunities of 
showing their gallantry. 

The Eose and Charlton were given up to the prisoners ; 
the Hector, Catherine, and Montezuma, I sent to Valparaiso, 
where they were laid up ; the Policy, Georgiana, and New 
Zealander, I sent to America ; the Greenwich I kept as a 
storeship, to contain the stores of my other prizes, necessary 
for us ; and the Atlantic, now called the Essex- Junior, I 
equipped with 20 guns, and gave command of her to Lieut. 
Dowries. 

Lieut, Downes had convoyed the prizes to Valparaiso, and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 319 

on his return brought me letters informing me that a squad- 
ron under the command of Com. James Hillyar, consisting 
of the frigate Phoebe, of 36 guns, the Racoon and Cherub, 
sloops-of-war, and a storeship of 20 guns, had sailed on the 
Gth of July for this sea. The Racoon and Cherub had been 
seeking me for some time on the coast of Brazil, and on their 
return from their cruise, joined the squadron sent in search 
of me to the Pacific. My ship, as it may be supposed, after 
being near a year at sea, required some repairs to put her 
in a state to meet them ; which I determined to do, and 
to bring them to action, if I could meet them on nearly equal 
terms. I proceeded now, in company with the remainder of 
my prizes, to the island of Nooaheevah, or Madison Island, 
lying in the Washington group, discovered by Capt. Ingra- 
ham, of Boston ; here I calked and completely overhauled 
my ship, made for her a new set of water casks, her old 
ones being entirely decayed, and took on board from my 
prizes, provisions and stores for upwards of four months, and 
sailed for the Coast of Chili on the 12th December, 1813. 
Previous to sailing, I secured the Seringapatam, Greenwich, 
and Sir Andrew Hammond under the gnns of a battery, which 
1 erected for their protection. After taking possession of 
this fine island for the United States, and establishing the 
most friendly intercourse with the natives, I left them under 
the charge of Lieut. Gamble of the marines, with twent} T - 
one men, with orders to repair to Valparaiso, after a certain 
period. 

I arrived on the Coast of Chili on the 12th January, 1814; 
looked into Conception and Valparaiso, found at both places 
only three English vessels, and learned that the squadron, 
which sailed from Rio de Janeiro for that sea, had not been 
heard of since their departure ; and were supposed to be lost 
in endeavoring to double Cape Horn. 

I had completely broken up the British navigation in the 
Pacific ; the vessels which had not been captured by me, 
were laid up and dared not venture out. I had afforded the 
most ample protection to our own vessels, which were on my 
arrival, very numerous and unprotected. The valuable whale 
fishery there is entirely destro} T ed, and the actual injury we 



320 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

have done them may be estimated at two and a half millions 
of dollars, independent of the expenses of the vessels in search 
of me. They have furnished me amply with sales, cordage, 
cables, anchors, provisions, medicines, and stores of every de- 
scription ; and the slops on board them have furnished cloth- 
ing for the seamen. We have in fact lived on the enemy since 
I have been in that sea, every prize having proved a well found 
storeship for me. I had not yet been under the necessity of 
drawing bills on the department for any object, and had been 
enabled to make considerable advances to my officers and crew 
on account of pay. 

For the unexampled time we had kept the sea, my crew 
had been remarkably healthy ; I had but one ease of the 
scurvy ; and had lost only the following men by death, viz. 
John S. Cowan, lieutenant ; Egbert Miller, surgeon ; Levi 
Holmes, Edward Sweeney, ord. seamen ; Samuel Groce, sea- 
man ; James Spaftbrd, gunner's mate ; Benjamin Geers, 
John Eodgers, quarter-gunners ; Andrew Mahan, corporal 
of marines ; Lewis Price, private marine. 

I had done all the injury that could be done the British 
commerce in the Pacific, and still hoped to signalize my 
cruise by something more splendid before leaving that sea. 
I thought it not improbable that Com. Hillyar might have 
kept his arrival secret, and believing that he would seek me 
at Valparaiso, as the most likely place to find me, 1 there- 
fore determined to cruise about that place, and should 1 fail 
of meeting him, hoped to be compensated by the capture of 
seme merchant ships, said to be expected from England. 

The Phoebe, agreeably to my expectations, came to seek 
me at Valparaiso, where I was anchored with the Essex, and 
my armed prize the Essex-Junior, under the command of 
Lieut. Downes, on the lookout of the harbor ; but contrary 
to the course I thought he would pursue, Com. Hillyar 
brought with him the Cherub sloop-of-war, mounting twenty- 
eight guns, eighteen 32 pound carronades, eight 2 -Is, and 
two long 9s on the quarter-deck and forecastle, and a com- 
plement of 180 men. The force of the Phoebe is as follows : 
thirty long 18 pounders, sixteen 32 pound carronades, one 
howitzer, and six three pounders in the tops, in all fifty-three 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 321 

guns, and a complement of 320 men ; making a force of 
eighty-one guns and 500 men ; in addition to which, they 
took on board the crew of an English letter of marque lying 
in port. Both ships had picked crews, and were sent into 
the Pacific in company with the Racoon of 22 guns, and a 
storeship of twenty guns, for the express purpose of seeking 
the Essex, and were prepared with flags, hearing the motto, 
" God and country ; British sailor's best rights ; traitors of- 
fend both." This was intended as a reply to my motto, "free 
trade and sailor's rights," under the erroneous impression 
that my crew were chiefly Englishmen, or to counteract its 
effect on their own crews. The force of the Essex was 4G 
guns, forty 32 pound carronades, and six long 12s, and her 
crew, which had been much reduced by prizes, amounted only 
to 255 men. The Essex-Junior, which was intended chiefly 
as a storeship, mounted 20 guns, ten 18 pound carronades, 
and ten short 7s, with only 60 men on board. In reply to 
their motto, I wrote at my mizzen, " God, our country, and 
liberty ; tyrants offend them." 

On getting their provisions on board, they went off the 
port for the purpose of blockading me, where they cruised 
for near six weeks ; during which time I endeavored to pro- 
voke a challenge, and frequently, but ineffectually, to bring 
the Phcebe alone to action, first with both my ships, and after- 
wards with my single ship, with both crews on board. I w T as 
several times under way, and ascertained that I had greatly 
the advantage in point of sailing, and once succeeded in 
closing within gunshot of the Phoebe, and commenced a fire 
on her, when she ran down for the Cherub, which was two 
miles and a half to leeward. This excited some surprise 
and expressions of indignation, as previous to my getting 
under way, she hove to off the port, hoisted her motto flag 
and fired a gun to windward. Com. Hillyar seemed deter- 
mined to avoid a contest with me on nearly equal terms, and 
from his extreme prudence in keeping both his ships ever af- 
ter constantly within hail of each other, there was no hopes 
of any advantages to my country from a longer stay in port. 
I therefore determined to put to sea the first opportunity 
which should offer ; and I was the more strongly induced to 
u 



o 



22 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



do so, as I had received certain intelligence that the Tagus, 
rated 38, and two other frigates, had sailed for that sea in 
pursuit of me ; and I had reason to expect the arrival of the 
liacoon from the N. W. coast of America, where she had 
"been sent for the purpose of destroying our fur establishment 
on the Columbia. A rendezvous was appointed for the Essex- 
Junior and every arrangement made for sailing, and I in- 
tended to let them chase me off, to give the Essex-Junior an 
opportunity of escaping. On the 28th March, the day after 
this determination was formed, the wind came on to blow 
fresh from the southward, when I parted my larboard cable, 
and dragged my starboard anchor directly out to sea. Not 
a moment was to be lost in getting sail on the ship. The 
enemy were close in with the point forming the west side of 
the bay ; but on opening them, I saw a prospect of passing 
to windward, when I took in my top-gallant-sails, which were 
set over single-reefed top-sails, and braced up for this pur- 
pose ; but on rounding the point, a heavy squall struck the 
ship and carried away her maintop-mast, precipitating the 
men who were aloft into the sea, who were drowned. Both 
ships now gave chase to me, and I endeavored in my disabled 
state to regain the port ; but finding I could not recover the 
common anchorage, I ran close into a small bay about three 
quarters of a mile to leeward of the battery on the east side 
of the harbor, and let go my anchor within pistol shot of the 
shore, where I intended to repair my damages as soon as 
possible. 

The enemy continued to approach, and showed an evident 
intention of attacking, regardless of the neutrality of the 
place where I was anchored ; and the caution observed in 
their approach to the attack of the crippled Escex, was truly 
ridiculous, as was their display of their motto flags, and 
the number of jacks at their mast heads. 1, with as much 
expedition as circumstances would admit of, got my ship 
ready for action, and endeavored to get a spring on my ca- 
ble, but had not succeeded when the enemy, at fiftv four 
minutes after 3, P. M., made his attack, the Phoebe placing 
herself under my stern, and the Cherub on my starboard 
bow; but the Cherub soon finding her situation a hot one, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 323 

bore up and ran under my stern also, where both ships kept 
up a hot raking fire. I had got three long twelve pounders 
out of the stern ports, which were worked with so much bra- 
very and skill, that in half an hour we so disabled both 
as to compel them to haul off to repair damages. In the 
course of this firing, I had by the great exertions of Mr. Ed- 
mund Barnwell, the acting sailing-master, assisted by Mr. 
Linscott, the boatswain, succeeded in getting springs on our 
cable three different times ; but the fire of the enemy was so 
excessive, that before we could get our broadside to bear, 
they were shot away, and thus rendered useless to us. My 
ship had received many injuries, and several had been killed 
and wounded ; but my brave officers and men, notwithstand- 
ing the unfavorable circumstances under which we were 
brought to action, and the powerful force opposed to us, were 
no ways discouraged ; and all appeared determined to de- 
fend their ship to the last extremity, and to die in prefer- 
ence to a shameful surrender. Our gaff, with the ensign, 
and the motto flag at the mizzen, had been shot away, but 
" free trade and sailors' rights" continued to fly at the fore. 
Our ensign was replaced by another ; and to guard against 
a similar event, an ensign was made fast in the mizzen rig- 
ging, and several jacks were hoisted in different parts of the 
ship. The enemy soon repaired his damages for a fresh 
attack ; he now placed himself with both his ships, on my 
starboard quarter, out of the reach of my carronacles, and 
where my stern guns could not be brought to bear ; he there 
kept up a most galling fire, which it was out of my power 
to return, when I saw no prospect of injuring him without 
getting underway and becoming the assailant. My top-sail 
sheets and halliards were all shot away, as well as the jib 
and foretop-mast staysail halliards. The only rope not cut 
away was the flying-jib halliards ; and that being the only 
sail I could set, I caused it to be hoisted, my cable to be cut, 
and ran down on both sbips, with an intention of laying the 
Phcebe on board. The firing on both sides was now tremen- 
dous ; I had let fall my foretop-sail and foresail, but the 
want of tacks and sheets rendered them almost useless to 
us — yet we were enabled, for a short time, to close with the 



324 .AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

enemy ; and although our decks were now strewed with dead, 
and our cockpit filled with wounded — although our ship had 
been several times on fire, and was rendered a perfect wreck, 
we were still encouraged to hope to save her, from the cir- 
cumstance of the Cherub, from her crippled state, being com- 
pelled to haul off. She did not return to close action again, 
although she apparently had it in her power to do so, but kept 
up a distant firing with her long guns. The Phoebe, from 
our disabled state, was enabled, however, by edging off, to 
choose the distance which best suited her long guns, and kept 
up a tremendous fire on us, which mowed down my brave 
companions by the dozen. Many of my guns had been ren- 
dered useless by the enemy's shot, and many of them had 
their whole crew's destroyed. We manned them again from 
those which were disabled, and one gun in particular was 
three times manned — fifteen men were slain at it, in the 
course of the action ! But, strange as it may appear, the 
captain of it escaped with only a slight wound. Finding 
that the enemy had it in his power to choose his distance, I 
now gave up all hopes of closing with him, and, as the 
wind, for the moment, seemed to favor the design, I deter- 
mined to endeavor to run her on shore, land my men and de- 
stroy her. Everything seemed to favor my wishes. 

We had approached the shore within musket shot, and I had 
no doubt of succeeding, when, in an instant, the wind shifted 
from the land (as is very common in this port in the latter 
part of the day) and payed our head down on the Phoebe, 
where we were again exposed to a dreadful raking fire. My 
ship was now totally unmanageable ; yet as her head was 
toward the enemy, and he to leeward of me, I still hoped to 
be able to board him. At this moment, Lieut. Commandant 
Downes came on board to receive my orders, under the im- 
pression that I should soon be a prisoner. He could be of no 
use to me in the then wretched state of the Essex — and find- 
ing (from the enemy's putting his helm up) that my attempt 
at boarding would not succeed, I directed him, after he had 
been about ten minutes on board, to return to his own ship, 
to be prepared for defending and destroying her in case 
of attack. He took with him several of my wounded, leav- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 325 

ino; three of his boat's crew on board to make room for them. 
The Cherub now had an opportunity of distinguishing her- 
self, by keeping up a hot fire on him during his return. 
The slaughter on board my ship had now become horrible, 
the enemy continuing to rake us, and we unable to bring a 
gun to bear. I therefore directed a hawser to be bent to 
the sheet anchor, and the anchor to be cut from the bows to 
bring her head round : this succeeded. We again got our 
broadside to bear, and as the enemy was much crippled and 
unable to hold his own, I have no doubt he would soon have 
drifted out of gunshot before he discovered we had anchored, 
had not the hawser unfortunately parted. My ship had ta- 
ken fire several times during the action, but alarmingly so 
forward and aft at this moment — flames were bursting up 
each hatchway, and no hopes were entertained of saving her. 
Our distance from the shore did not exceed three-quarters of 
a mile, and I hoped many of my brave crew would be able 
to save themselves, should the ship blow up, as I was in- 
formed the fire was near the magazine, and the explosion of 
a large quantity of powder below served to increase the hor- 
rors of our situation — our boats were destroyed by the en- 
emy's shot ; I therefore directed those who could swim, to 
jump overboard, and endeavor to gain the shore — some 
reached it — some were taken by the enemy, and some per- 
ished in the attempt ; but most preferred sharing with me 
the fate of the ship. 

We, who remained, now turned our attention wholly to 
extinguishing the flames : and when we had succeeded, went 
again to our guns, where the firing was kept up for some 
minutes, but the crew had by this time become so weakened, 
that they all declared to me the impossibility of making 
further resistance, and entreated me to surrender my ship to 
save the wounded, as all further attempt at opposition must 
prove ineffectual, almost every gun being disabled by 
the destruction of their crews. I now sent for the officers of 
divisions to consult them ; but what was my surprise to find 
only acting Lieutenant Stephen Decatur M'Knight remain- 
ing, (who confirmed the report respecting the condition of the 
guns on the gun-deck — those on the spar-deck were not in a 



326 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

better state.) Lieut. Wilnier, after fighting most gallantly 
throughout the action, had been knocked overboard by a 
splinter while getting the sheet anchor from the bows, and 
was drowned. Acting Lieutenant John G. Cowell had lost a 
leg ; Mr. Edmund Barnwell, acting sailing-master, had 
been carried below, after receiving two severe wounds, one in 
the breast and one in the face; and Acting Lieutenant 
William H. Odenheimer had been knocked overboard from 
the quarter an instant before, and did not regain the ship 
until after the surrender. I was informed that the cockpit, 
the steerage, the wardroom, and the berth deck could con- 
tain no more wounded ; that the wounded were killed while 
the surgeons were dressing them ; and that unless some- 
thing was speedily done to prevent it, the ship would soon 
sink from the number of shot holes in her bottom. On 
sending for the carpenter, he informed me that all his crew 
had been killed or wounded, and that he had once been 
over the side to stop the leaks, when his slings had been shot 
away, and it was with difficulty he was saved from drown- 
ing. The enemy, from the smoothness of the water, and the 
impossibility of our reaching him with our carronades, and 
the little apprehension that was excited by our fire, which 
had now become much slackened, was enabled to take aim 
at us as at a target : his shot never missed our hull, and 
my ship was cut up in a manner, which was, perhaps, never 
before witnessed — in fine, I saw no hopes of saving her, and 
at 20 minutes after 6 P. M. gave the painful order to strike 
the colors. Seventy-five men, including officers, were all that 
remained of my whole crew, after the action, capable of 
doing duty, and many of them severely wounded, some of 
whom have since died. The enemy still continued his fire, 
and my brave, though unfortunate companions, were still 
falling about me. I directed an opposite gun to be fired, to 
show them we intended no farther resistance ;- but they did 
not desist ; four men were killed at my side, and others at 
different parts of the ship. I now believed he intended to 
show us no quarter, and that it would be as well to die with 
my flag flying as struck, and was on the point of again 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 327 

hoisting it, when about 10 minutes after hauling the colors 
down he ceased firing. 

I cannot >speak in sufficiently high terms of the conduct 
of those engaged for such an unparalleled length of time 
(under such circumstances) with me in the arduous and un- 
equal contest. Let it suffice to say, that more bravery, skill, 
patriotism and zeal, were never displayed on any occasion. 
Every one seemed determined to die in defence of their 
much loved country's cause, and nothing but views of hu- 
manity could ever have reconciled them to the surrender of 
the ship ; they remembered their wounded and helpless 
shipmates below. To acting Lieutenants M'Knight and 
Odenheimer, I. feel much indebted for their great exertions 
and bravery throughout the action, in fighting and encour- 
aging the men at their divisions, for the dexterous manage- 
ment of the long guns, and for their promptness in re-man- 
ning their guns as their crews were slaughtered. The con- 
duct of that brave and heroic officer, acting Lieutenant John 
G. Cowell, who lost his leg in the latter part of the action, 
excited the admiration of every man in the ship, and after 
being wounded, would not consent to be taken below, until 
loss of blood rendered him insensible. Mr. Edmund Barn- 
well, acting sailing-master, whose activitv and courage were 
equally conspicuous, returned on deck after receiving his 
first wound, and remained after receiving his second, until 
fainting with loss of blood. Mr. Samuel B. Johnston, who 
had joined me the day before, and acted as marine officer, 
conducted himself with great bravery, and exerted himself 
in assisting at the long guns; the musketry after the first 
half hour being useless from our long distance. 

Mr. M. "VV. Bostwick, whom I had appointed acting purser 
of the Essex-Junior, and who was on board my ship, did the 
duties of aid in a manner which reflects on him the highest 
honor: and Midshipmen Isaacs, Farrugut, and Ogden, as 
well as Acting Midshipmen James Terry, James B. Lyman 
and Samuel Duzenbury, and Master's Mate William Pierce, 
exerted themselves in the performance of their respective 
duties ; and gave an earnest of their value to the service ; 
the three first are too young to recommend for promotion ; 



328 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the latter I beg leave to recommend for confirmation, as well 
as the acting lieutenants and Messrs. Barnwell, Johnston and 
Bostwick. 

We have been unfortunate, but not disgraced — the defence 
of the Essex has not been less honorable to her officers and 
her crew, than the capture of an equal force ; and I now con- 
sider my situation less unpleasant, than that of Com. Hill jar, 
who, in violation of every principle of honor and generosity, 
and regardless of the rights of nations, attacked the Essex 
in her crippled state, within pistol shot of a neutral shore, 
when for six weeks I had daily offered him fair and honora- 
ble combat, on terms greatly to his advantage. The blood 
of the slain must rest on his head ; and he has yet to recon- 
cile his conduct to heaven, to his conscience, and to the world. 
The annexed extracts of a letter frem Com. Hillyar, which 
was written previous to his returning me my sword, will show 
his opinion of our conduct. 

My loss has been dreadfully severe, 58 killed, or have since 
died of their wounds, and among them Lieut. Cowell ; 39 
were severely wounded, 27 slightly, and 31 are missing ; 
making in all 155 killed, wounded, and missing, a list of 
whose names is annexed. 

The professional knowledge of Dr. Eichard Hoffman, act- 
ing surgeon, and Dr. Alexander Montgomery, acting sur- 
geon's mate, added to their assiduity and the benevolent at- 
tentions and assistance of Mr. D. P. Adams, the chaplain, 
saved the lives of many of the wounded ; those gentlemen 
have been indefatigable in their attentions to them ; the two 
first I beg leave to recommend for confirmation, and the lat- 
ter to the notice of the department. 

I must, in justification of myself, observe, that with our six 
12 pounders only, we fought this action — our carronades 
being almost useless. 

The loss in killed and wounded has been great with the 
enemy ; among the former is the first lieutenant of the Phoe- 
be, and of the latter Capt. Tucker, of the Cherub, whose 
wounds are severe. Both the Essex and Phoebe were in a 
sinking state, and it was with difficulty they could be kept 
afloat until they anchored in Valparaiso next morning. 







pfWF 



■lilfi 



330 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

The battered state of the Essex will, I believe, prevent her 
ever reaching England, and I also think it will be out of 
their power to repair the damages of the Phcebe, so as to en- 
able her to double Capo Horn. All the masts and yards of 
the Phoebe and Cherub are badly crippled, and their hulls 
much cut up ; the former had eighteen 12 pound shot through 
her, below her water-line, some three feet under water. 
Nothing but the smoothness of the water saved both the 
Phoebe and Essex. 

I hope, sir, that our conduct may prove satisfactory to 
our country, and that it will testify it by obtaining our speedy 
exchange, that we may again have it in our power to prove 
our zeal. 

Commodore Hillyar, I am informed, has thought proper 
to state to his government that the action lasted only -15 
minutes ; should he have done so, the motive may be easily 
discovered — but the thousand of disinterested witnesses who 
covered the surrounding hills, can testify that we fought 
his ships near two hours and a half; upwards of fifty 
broadsides were fired by the enemy agreeably to their own 
accounts, and upwards of seventy-five by ours ; except the 
few minutes they were repairing damages, the firing was in- 
cessant. ' 

Soon after my capture, I entered into an agreement with 
Com. Hillyar to disarm my prize, the Essex-Junior, and pro- 
ceed with the survivors of my officers and crew in her to 
the United States, taking with me all her officers and crew. 

7 C5 

He consented to grant her a passport to secure her from re- 
capture. The ship was small, and we knew we had much 
to suffer, yet we hoped soon to reach our country in safety, 
that we might again have it in our power to serve it. This 
arrangement was attended with no additional expense, as 
she was abundantly supplied with provisions and stores for 
the vovasre. 

Injustice to Com. Hillyar, I must observe, that, although 
I can never be reconciled to the manner of his attack on the 
Essex, or to his conduct before the action, he has, since our 
capture, shown the greatest humanity to my wounded, whom 
he permitted me to land, on condition that the United States 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 331 

should bear their expenses, and has endeavored as much as 
lay in his power to alleviate the distresses of war by the 
most generous and delicate deportment towards myself, my 
officers and crew ; he gave orders that the property of ev- 
ery person should be respected — his orders, however, were 
not so strictly attended to as might have been expected ; 
besides being deprived of books, charts, &c. &c, both my- 
self and officers lost many articles of our clothing, some 
to a considerable amount. I should not have considered 
this last circumstance of sufficient importance to notice, did 
it not mark a striking difference between the Navy of Great 
Britain and that of the United States, highly creditable to 
the latter. 

By the arrival of the Tagus, a few days after my capture, 
I was informed that besides the ships which had arrived in 
the Pacific in pursuit of me, and those still expected, others 
were sent to cruise for me in the China seas, off New Zea- 
land, Tiniour, and Now Holland, and that another frigate 
was sent to the River La Plata. 

To possess the Essex, it has cost the British government 
near six millions of dollars ; and yet, sir, her capture was 
owing entirely to accident; and if we consider the expedition 
with which naval contests are now decided, the action is a 
dishonor to them. Had they brought their ships boldly to 
action with a force so very superior, and having the choice 
of position, they should either have captured or destroyed us 
in one-fourth the time they were about it. 

During the action, our Consul General, Mr. Poinsett, called 
on the governor of Valparaiso, and requested that the bat- 
teries might protect the Essex. The request was refused, but 
he promised that if she should succeed in fighting her way 
to the common anchorage, he would send an officer to the 
British commander and request him to cease firing, but de- 
clined using force under any circumstances, and there is no 
doubt a perfect understanding existed between them. This 
conduct added to the assistance given to the British, and 
their friendly reception after the action, and the strong bias 
of the faction which governs Chili in favor of the English, 
as well as their hostility to the Americans, induced Mr.Poin- 



332 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

sett to leave that country. Under such circumstances, I did 
not conceive that it would he proper for me to claim the res- 
toration of my ship, confident that the claim would he made 
hy my government to more effect. Finding some difficulty 
in the sale of my prizes, I had taken the Hector and Cathe- 
rine to sea, and burnt them with their cargoes. 

I exchanged Lieut. M'Knight, Mr. Adams and Mr. Lyman 
and eleven seamen, for part of the crew of the Sir Andrew 
Hammond, and sailed from Valparaiso on the 27th April, 
where the enemy were still patching up their ships to put 
them in a state for proceeding to Rio de Janeiro, previous to 
going to England. 

Annexed is a list of the remains of my crew to he ex- 
changed, as also a copy of the correspondence hetween Com. 
Hilly ar and myself on that subject. I also send you a list 
of the prisoners I have taken during my cruise, amounting 
to 343. I have the honor to he, &c, 

Eon. Secr'y of the Navij D. PORTER 

of the United States, Washington. 

During the action, the Essex-Junior lay in the port of Val- 
paraiso, under the guns of a Spanish fort, unable to take any 
part in the contest. After the action, Capt. Porter and his 
crew were paroled, and by arrangement permitted to come 
home in the Essex-Junior, and a cartel, with his crew. Off 
the Hook they were detained 24 hours by the British razee 
Saturn, in company with the frigate Narcissus. Com. Porter 
left the Essex-Junior on the 6th of July, in one of her 
yawls, with six men, ahout thirty miles outside of the Hook, 
and landed on the 7th at Babylon, on Long Island, where 
he procured a wagon, took on board his yawl and jolly tars, 
and reached Brooklyn about 5 o'clock, P. M. 

The Essex had landed all her specie, amounting to two 
millions, at Valparaiso, previous to her being captured. 

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. HILLYAR TO ME. 

Phcebe, Aprils, 1814. 
My Dear Sir : — Neither in my conversations nor the ac- 
companying letter, have I mentioned your sword. Ascribe my 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 333 

remissness in the first instance to forgetfulness ; I consider 
it only in my servant's possession with my own, until the 
master may please to call for it ; and although I omitted, 
at the moment of presentation, from my mind being much 
engrossed in attending to professional duties, to offer its res- 
toration, the hand that received will he most gladly ex- 
tended, to put it in possession of him who wore it so honor- 
ably in defending his country's cause. 
Believe me, my dear sir, 

very faithfully yours, 

JAMES HILLYAIt. 

Capt. Porter. 

After some conversation on the subject the following cor- 
respondence took place. 

Valparaiso, April 4, 1814. 

Sir : — Taking into consideration the immense distance we 
are from our respective countries, the uncertainty of the fu- 
ture movements of his majesty's ships under my command, 
which precludes the possibility of my making a permanent 
arrangement for transporting the officers and crew, late of 
the Essex, to Europe ; and the fast approaching season which 
renders a passage round Cape Horn in some degree dan- 
gerous ; I have the honor to propose for your approbation, the 
following articles, which, I hope, the government of the 
United States, as well as that of Great Britain, will deem 
satisfactory ; and to request, that should you conceive them 
so, vou will favor me with the necessary bond for their ful- 
filment. 

First. The Essex-Junior to be deprived of all her arma- 
ment and perfectly neutralized ; to be equipped for the voy- 
age solely and wholly at the expense of the American gov- 
ernment ; and to proceed with a proper American officer and 
crew (of which I wish to be furnished with a list, for the pur- 
pose of giving the necessary passport) to any port of the 
United States of America that you may deem most proper. 

Second. Yourself, the officers, petty officers, seamen, ma- 
rines, &c, composing your crew, to be exchanged immedi- 



334 AUTO BIOGRAPHY. 

ately on their arrival in America, for an equal number of 
British prisoners of similar rank. Yourself and officers to 
be considered on their parole of honor until your and their 
exchange shall be effected. 

In case of the foregoing articles being accepted, the 
Essex-Junior will be expected to prepare immediately for 
the voyage, and to proceed on it before the expiration of 
the present month ; should any of the wounded at that pe- 
riod be found incapable of removal, from not being suffi- 
ciently advanced in their recovery, the most humane attention 
shall be paid them ; and they shall be forwarded home by 
the first favorable conveyance that may offer. 

I have the honor to be, &c, 

JAMES H1LLYAR. 

Com. David Porter, 
late commander of the JJ. S. frigate Essex. 

COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPTAIN PORTER TO THE 
SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 

New York, July 13, 1814. 

S IR : — There are some facts relating to our enemy, and 
although not connected with the action, serve to show bis 
perfidy, and should be known. 

Oi/Com. Hillyar's arrival at Valparaiso, he ran the Phoebe 
close along-side of the Essex, and inquired politely after my 
health, observing, that his ship was cleared for action, and 
his men prepared for boarding. I observed, " Sir, if you by 
any accident, get on board of me, I assure you that great 
confusion will take place ; I am prepared to receive you, but 
shall onlv act on the defensive." He observed, coolly and 
indifferently, " Oh, sir, I have no such intention." At this 
instant, his ship took aback on my starboard bow, her yards 
nearly locking with those of the Essex. I called all hands 
to board the enemy, and in an instant my crew were ready 
to spring on her decks. Com. Hillyar exclaimed, with great 
agitation, " I had no intention of getting on board of you ; 
I had no intention of coming so near you ; I am sorry I 
come so near you." His ship fell off with her jib-boom over 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 335 

my decks ; her bows exposed to my broadside, her stern to 
the fire of the Essex-Junior, her crew in the greatest confu- 
sion, and in fifteen minutes, I could have taken or destroyed 
her.' After he had brought his ship to anchor, Com. Hillyar 
and Capt. Tucker of the Cherub, visited me on shore, when 
I asked him if he intended to respect the neutrality of the 
port. " Sir," said he, " you have paid such respect to the 
neutrality of this port, that I feel myself bound, in honor, 

to do the same/' 

I have the honor to be, &c, 

DAVID PORTER 

After the capture of the Essex, Capt. Porter entered into 
an arrangement with Com. Hillyar, to transport the survivors 
of his crew to the United States in the Essex-Junior, on pa- 
role, on condition that she should receive a passport to secure 
her from re-capture and detention. On the 5th of July, fell 
in with H. B. M. ship Saturn, Capt, Nash, who examined the 
papers of the Essex-Junior, treated Capt. Porter with great 
civility, furnished him with late newspapers, and sent him on 
board"some oranges ; and at the same time made him an of- 
fer of services. The Boarding officer endorsed the passport, 
and permitted the ship to proceed. She stood on the same 
tack with the Saturn ; and about two hours afterwards was 
again brought to, the papers examined, and the ship's hold 
overhauled by the boat's crew and an officer. Capt. Porter 
expressed his astonishment at such proceedings, and was in- 
formed that Capt. Nash had his motives. It was stated that 
Com. Hillyar had no authority to make such arrangement ; 
that the passport must go on board of the Saturn again, and 
the Essex-Junior be detained. Capt. Porter then insisted 
that the smallest detention would be a violation of the con- 
tract on the part of the British, and that he should consider 
himself as the prisoner of Capt, Nash, and no longer on his 
parole ; at the same time offering his sword, which was re- 
fused, assuring the officer he would deliver it up with the 
same feelings he had presented it to Com. Hillyar. The of- 
ficer went on board, returned and informed Capt, Porter, that 
the Essex-Junior must remain all night under the Ice of the 






336 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Saturn. Then, said Capt. Porter, I am your prisoner ; I do 
not feel myself bound by any contract with Com. Hillyar, 
and I shall act accordingly. 

At seven o'clock next morning, the wind being light from 
the southward, the ships being about thirty or forty miles 
from the land off the eastern part of Long Island, and about 
musket shot from each other, there appearing no disposition 
on the part of the enemy to liberate the Essex-Junior, Capt. 
Porter determined to attempt his escape. A boat was lowered 
down, manned and armed ; he desired Capt, Downes to in- 
form Capt. Nash, that he was now satisfied that most British 
naval officers were not only destitute of honor, but regardless 
of the honor of each other ; that he was armed and prepared 
to defend himself against their boats, if sent in pursuit of 
him ; and that they must hereafter meet him as an enemy. 
He now pulled off from the ship, keeping the Essex-Junior 
in a direct line between him and the Saturn, and got near 
gunshot from them before he was discovered ; at this instant 
a fresh breeze sprung up, and the Saturn made all sail in 
pursuit of him, but fortunately a thick fog set in and con- 
cealed him, when he changed his course, and eluded them. 
During the fog he heard a firing, and on its clearing up dis- 
covered the Saturn in chase of the Essex-Junior, who soon 
brought her to. After rowing and sailing about sixty miles, 
Capt, Porter succeeded, with great difficulty and hazard, in 
reaching the town of Babylon, (Long Island) where, being 
strongly suspected to be an English officer, he was closely in- 
terrogated, and his story appearing so extraordinary, none 
gave credit ; but on showing his commission, all doubts were 
removed, and he met from all the inhabitants the most friendly 
and hospitable reception. 

A gentleman, who took part in the engagement, has re- 
lated the following anecdotes exemplary of that fearless and 
patriotic spirit which animated the whole crew of the Essex, 
and which has characterized our hardy sailors in all their 
combats with the enemy. To the memory of these brave 
fellows their publicity is due ; and we doubt not many more 
instances of chivalrous heroism, resulting from a noble love 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 337 

of country, might be obtained and recorded, to the lasting 
honor of the American name. 

John Ripley, after losing his leg, said " farewell, boys ; I 
can be of no use to you ; " and leaped out of the bow port. 

John Alvinson received a cannon ball (eighteen pounder) 
through the body ; in the agony of death, he exclaimed, 
" never mind, shipmates ; I die in defence of ' Free trade and 
sailors' r-i-g-h-t-s ; ' " and expired with the word rights quiv- 
ering on his lips. 

James Anderson had his left leg shot off, and died anima- 
ting his shipmates to fight bravly in defence of liberty. 

After the engagement, Benjamin Hazen, having dressed 
himself in a clean shirt and jerkin, addressed his remaining 
messmates, and telling; them he never could submit to be a 
prisoner to the English, threw himself into the sea. 

SEQUEL OF CAPTAIN PORTER'S EXPEDITION IN THE SOUTH SEA. 

On the 19th of November 1813, Capt. Porter took formal 
possession of the Island, called by the natives Nooaheevah, 
generally known by the name of Sir Henry Martin's Island, 
but now called Madison Island. It is situated between lat. 
9° and 10° S. and in long. 140° W, from Greenwich. 

The following is a letter from Capt Gamble to Capt. Porter. 

Capt. Gamble, the reader will recollect, was left by Capt. 
Porter with a few men, in charge of two or three vessels and 
some public property, when he sailed from Madison Island for 
Valparaiso, previous to his ever memorable battle in the Es- 
sex. The following letter comprises all the subsequent oc- 
currences : 

Sin, New York, August 30, 1815. 

With regret I have to inform you, the frigate had not got 
clear of the Marquesas, before we discovered in the natives a 
hostile disposition towards us, who in a few days became so 
insolent, that I found it absolutely necessary, not only for 
the security of the ships, and property on shore, but for our 
v 



338 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

personal safety, to land my men, and regain by force of 
arms the many tilings they had, in the most daring manner, 
stolen from the encampment ; and what was of still greater 
importance, to prevent, if possible, their putting threats into 
execution, which might have been attended with the most se- 
rious consequences on our part from duty requiring my men 
to be so much separated. 

I however had the satisfaction to accomplish my wish with- 
out firing a musket, and from that time lived in the most 
perfect amity with them, until the 7th May following, when 
my distressed situation placed me in their power. 

Before mentioning the lamentable events of that day, and 
the two succeeding ones, I shall give you a brief account of 
a few preceding occurrences, which were sources of great un- 
easiness to me. The first was the death of John Wetter, 
marine, who was unfortunately drowned in the surf, on the 
afternoon of the 28th February, and the desertion of four of 
my men. They took the advantage of a dark night, and 
left the bay unobserved by any person, all excepting one, a 
prisoner, having the watch on deck. They took with them 
several muskets, a supply of ammunition, and many articles 
of but little value. My attempt to pursue them was pre- 
vented by their destroying partially the only boat (near the 
beach, at that time sea-worthy. 

On the 12th April, began to rig the ships Seringapatam 
and Sir Andrew Hammond, which, as I calculated, employed 
the men until the 1st of May. All hands were then en- 
gaged in getting the remainder of the property from the 
Greenwich to the Seringapatam, as I began to despair of 
your rejoining me at that place. 

The work went on well, and the men were obedient to my 
orders, though I discovered an evident change in their coun- 
tenances, which led me to suppose there was something wrong 
in agitation, and under that impression, had all the muskets, 
ammunition, and small arms of every description, taken to 
the Greenwich, the ship I lived on board, from the other 
ships, as a necessary precaution against a surprise from my 
own men. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 339 

On the 7th May, while on board the Seringapatam, on 
duty, which required my being present, a mutiny took 
place, in which I was wounded, and the mutineers succeeded 
in getting the Seringapatam out of the bay. Two days af- 
ter, when making the necessary preparations to depart for 
Valparaiso, we were attacked by the savages, and I have 
with the deepest regret, to inform you, sir, that Midshipman 
William Felters, John Thomas, Thomas Gibbs, and William 
Brudinell, were massacred, and Peter Coddington, marine, 
dangerously wounded. After bending the jib and spanker, 
we cut our moorings, and fortunately had alight breeze, that 
carried the ship clear of the bay, with six cartridges remain- 
ing out of the only barrel left us by the mutineers. 

After getting out of the bay, we found our situation most 
distressing. In attempting to run the boat up, it broke in 
two parts, and we were compelled to cut away from the bows 
the only anchor, not being able to cat it. We mustered al- 
together eight souls, out of which there was one cripple, one 
dangerously wounded, one sick, one just recovering from the 
scurvy, and myself confined to the bed with a high fever, 
produced by my wound. 

In that state, destitute of charts, and almost of every 
means of navigating the ship, I reached the Sandwich Islands, 
after a passage of seventeen days, and suffering much from 
fatigue and hardships. I was there unfortunately captured 
by the English ship Cherub, remained a prisoner on board 
of her seven months, during which time my men were treated 
in a most shameful manner. We were then put on shore at 
Eio de Janeiro, without the possibility of getting away until 
after hearing of the peace. I then, by the advice of the 
physician who attended me, embarked on board a Swedish 
ship bound for Havre de Grace, (there being no other means 
of my getting away at that time,) leaving behind Midship- 
man Clapp and five men, having lost one soon after my arri- 
val in that place with the small-pox. 

On the 1st inst. lat. 47 deg. N. long. 18 deg. W. we fell 
in with the American ship Oliver Ellsworth, from Havre, 
bound to this port. I took a passage on board of her, and ar- 



! 



340 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

rived here two clays since, after beino; upwards of an hundred 
days at sea. I am at present unable to travel, and shall 
therefore await either your orders, or the orders of the com- 
mandant of the marine corps at this place. 

I have the honor to remain, with the highest 

respect and esteem, sir, your obed't serv't, 

JOHN M. GAMBLE. 
! 



i 



CHAPTER XVI. 

Comment on punishment in the Navy, — Punishment in Queen Elizabeth's 
time,— Capt. Stockton on the subject, — Present condition of sailors, — 
Remarks on sea-captains, — They are often swindled, — Hard-h&arted 
wretch, — Kindness, — Benevolent men, — Return to my narrative, — Be- 
come a member of the Methodist church, — Strange opinion of pious 
men, — Unexpected caution, — Conclude to build a house, — Curious ma- 
noeuvre, — An old miser, — Vigilance committee, — Obtain a lot, — Sickness 
and death of the miser, — Small business, — Agree with a brother to build 
a house,— Caution, — Deceived, — Break off with him, — Pay him off. 

Before I take leave of the naval service, I wish to indulge 
in a few remarks on flogging in the Navy, and of the general 
character of sailors. 

I have had occasion several times to mention the witnessing 
of this brutal punishment, and to repeat the sentiments which 
I have previously advanced on this subject. Nothing can be 
more revolting to anything like a sensitive mind, than to see 
a man tied up, and his back cut into strips ; the skin peeling 
from the flesh, thus leaving it a mass of clotted blood. 

I have been told by seamen who have spent nearly their 
whole lives on board a man-of-war, both in the English and 
American Navy, that the punishments are more frequent 
and much more severe in the latter than in the former. 
This, however, we can give as much credit to as we please. 

But I remember while lying at Callao in company with the 
Hyperion, English frigate, and at one time were quite near 
her, I observed every morning just after daylight, the upper 
end of a number of muskets peering over the hammock cloth, 
and moving fore and aft, or backwards and forward. 

One day when one of their boats was along-side our ship, 
I asked one of the boat's crew what the reason was of their 
having so many marines on post in the gangway. The fel- 
low looked up to me from the boat, and rolling his quid over, 
in a good-natured manner, replied : 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 343 

" Them was fellers as missed their muster. The old man, 
(Capt. Searle,) don't allow any flogging onboard our ship, 
but what he does himself." 

These muskets are all filled up with leaden bullets, chock 
up to the top, and they are obliged to carry them the whole 
watch. The penalty for this with us, in the United States 
Navy, is a dozen or two with the colt. Now, whatever may 
be the opinion of some with regard to the comparison, one 
thing is most certain, that the latter is the most brutal, and 
yet in the English Navy in the time of Queen Elizabeth, the 
usage was dreadfully severe. 

Punishment of seamen in the reign of Queen Eliza- 
beth. 

From the Harleian MSS. 

The executions and capitall punishments I finde to be thus 
in Queene Elizabeth's tyme aborde her own shippes. If anye 
one mann killed another, he was to be bownde to the dead man 
and soe thrown into the sea. If anye one drew a weapon 
wherewith to stryke his captaine, he was to loose his right 
hande. If anye one drew a weapon within borde in anye 
waye of tumult or murder, he was to loose his righte hande. 
If anye one pilfered or stole awaye anye goods or monies 
from anye of his fellowes, he was to be thryse ducked att the 
boltsprite and then to be dragged at the bote sterne and sett 
on shoare upon the next land with a lofe of bread and a can 
of beere. If anye one practysed to steale awaye of her 
Majesty's shippes, the captaine was to cause him to be hanged 
by the heeles until his braines were beaten oute against the 
shippe's sides, and then to be cutt downe and lett fall intoe 
the sea. If anye one slept in his watche, for the first time, 
he was to be headed with a bucket of water : for the second 
time, he was to be haled upp by the wrysts, and to have two 
buckets of water poured intoe his sleeves : for the thirde 
time, he was to be bounde to the mayne mast with plates of 
iron, and to have some gunn chambers or a basket of bulletts 
tied to his armes and soe to remaine at the pleasure of the 
captaine : for the fourth time, he was to be hanged at the 



344: AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

boltsprite, with a can of beere and a biscott of breade and a 
sharpe knife, and soe to hange and chuse whether he woulde 
cutt himself downe and fall intoe the sea, or hange still and 
starve. If anye one marryner or soldier stole awaye from 
her Majesty's service without lycense of his captaine, he was 
to be hanged. If anye one did mutinye aboute his allowde 
proportion of victuals, he was to be layde in the bilboes dur- 
ing the captaine 7 s pleasure. As for all petty pillferings and 
commissions of that kinde, those were generallie punished 
with the whippe, the offender beinge to that purpose bounde 
faste to the capstan ; and the waggerie and idleness of shippe 
boys paid by the boats way ne with a rodde, and commonlie 
this execution is done upon Mondaye mornings, and is soe 
frequentlie in use, that some meere seamen and saylors doe 
believe in good earnest that thev shall never have a faire 
winde until the poor boyes be dulie brought to the chest, that 
is, whipped every Mondaye morninge. 

xYgainst flogging in the Navy. — R. F. Stockton. 

There is one broad proposition upon which I stand. It is 
this. That an American sailor is an American citizen, and 
no American citizen shall, with my consent, be subjected to 
the infamous punishment of the lash. If, when a citizen 
enters into the service of his country, he is to forego the pro- 
tection of those laws for the preservation of which he is will- 
ing to risk his life, he is entitled, in all justice, humanity and 
gratitude, to all the protection that can be extended to him in 
his peculiar circumstances. He ought certainly, to be pro- 
tected from the infliction of a punishment which stands con- 
demned by the almost universal sentiment of his fellow citi- 
zens. A punishment which is proscribed in the best prison 
government, proscribed in the schoolhouse, and proscribed 
in the best government on earth — that of parental domes- 
tic affection. Yes, sir, expelled from the social circle, from 
the schoolhouse, the prison-house and the army, it finds 
defenders and champions nowhere but in the Navy. Look 
to your history, that part of it which the world knows by 
heart, and you will find on its brightest page the glorious 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 345 

achievements of the American sailor. Whatever his country 
has done to disgrace him, and break his spirits, he never has 
disgraced her. He has always been ready to serve her, and 
he always has served her faithfully and effectually. He has 
often been weighed in the balance and never found wanting. 
The only fault found with him is, that he sometimes fights 
ahead of his orders. The world has no match for him, man 
for man, and he asks no odds and he cares for no odds, when 
the cause of humanity, or the glory of his country calls him 
to fight. Who, in the darkest days of our revolution carried 
your flag into the very chops of the British Channel, bearded 
the lion in his den, and woke the echoes of old Albion's hills 
by the thunder of his cannon and the shouts 1 It was the 
American sailor. And the names of John Paul Jones and 
the Bon homme Richard, will go down in the annals of time 
forever. Who struck the first blow that humbled the Bar- 
bary flag — which for a hundred years had been the terror 
of Christendom — drove it from the Mediterranean, and put 
an end to the infamous tribute it had been accustomed to 
extort? It was the American sailor. And the name of 
Decatur and his gallant companions; will be as lasting as 
monumental brass. In your war of 1812, when your arms 
on shore were covered by disaster — when Winchester had 
been defeated and the army of the North-west had surren- 
dered, and when the gloom of despondency hung like a cloud 
over the land — who first re-lit the fires of national glory, 
and made the w T elkin ring with the shouts of victory ? It 
was the American sailor. And the names of 'Hull and the 
Constitution will be remembered as long as we have anything 
worth remembering. This was no small event. The wand 
of Mexican prowess was broken on the Rio Grande. The 
wand of British invincibility was broken when the flag of 
the G-uerriere came down. That one event was worth more 
to the Republic than all the money that has been expended for 
the Navy. Since that time, the Navy has had no stain upon its 
escutcheon, but has been cherished as your pride and glory. 
And the American sailor has established a reputation through- 
out the world — in peace and in war, in storm and in battle 
— for heroism and prowess, unsurpassed. He shrinks from 



346 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

no danger, he dreads no foe, and yields to no superior. No 
shoals are too dangerous, no seas too boisterous, no climate 
too rigorous, for him. The burning sun of the tropics can- 
not make him effeminate, nor can the eternal winter of the 
polar seas paralyze his energies. Foster, cherish, develop 
these characteristics and stimulate his ambition by rewards. 
But above all save him, save him from the brutalizing lash 
and inspire him with love and confidence for your service. 
And then there is no achievement so arduous, no conflict so 
desperate in which his actions will not shed glory upon his 
country. And when the final struggle comes, as soon as it 
will come, for the empire of the seas, you may rest with 
entire satisfaction in the persuasion that victory will be 
yours. " 

I can fully endorse the sentiments of the gallant Stockton 
with regard to the noble bearing of the genuine Tar. But 
when I speak of the sailor, I don't mean every one who wears 
a blue jacket and goes swaggering through our streets ; these 
perhaps may belong to some wood coaster and too often come 
under the denomination of sailors. Notwithstanding so much 
has been said about punishment, it is not often that the real 
sailor gets into difficulty after all, for he is seldom found 
guilty of any of the crimes that merit punishment ; never- 
theless he is exposed to the lash and does sometimes catch it. 
All who know anything of the nature of a man-of-war and 
of the absolute necessity of a rigid code of laws — such as 
are expressed in the articles of Avar — the internal rules and 
regulations of the ship, know, also, that there must be a 
penalty, and that the police regulations of the ship must be 
undeviatingly adhered to, for a ship-of-war, without complete 
subordination, would be entirely useless and inefficient in 
battle ; and the characteristic of a sailor is such as that he 
must be made at all times, and under all circumstances to toe 
the mark, never mind whether he be one of the crew of six 
who ply to the West Indies, or of the line of battle ship who 
number seven hundred ; and now what is the penalty ? I 
nnswer, 'tis the colt, the cat, the irons and confinement, and 
finally the yard-arm. Can the dignity and discipline of the 
Navy be sustained under any other penalty ') without at- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 347 

tempting even the suggestive legislator, I leave the question , 
with an earnest entreaty to abolish the whip* It may answer 
very well for boys when properly applied, but should never 
be put upon the back of a man ; at the same time, I know that 
strong arguments can be brought forward in support of the 
present law ; for, here are a crew of four hundred, men and 
boys, and some from every quarter of the Earth, from the 
Chinaman to the Laplander, and this heterogeneous mass must 
be brought under the homogeneous Government, and every 
officer is" responsible for the punctual performance of every 
item of the law from all those who come legitimately under 

his charge. 

Speaking of the sailor, I have witnessed many an instance 

of his undaunted bravery and ingenuousness, besides having 

been told very many noble acts, by those who have been the 

recipients. 1 remember,. some years ago a ship got ashore 

near Rockaway, New York ; it was in the dead of winter ; 

the ship lay entirely under water, with only the head of her 

maintop-mast out ; nearly all had been swept off and drowned 

— upon this top-mast head were a sailor and a gentleman 

passenger ; the sailor had lashed himself and the passenger 

to the rigging to prevent being washed away. The night was 

dreadful cold — no boat dared come off until morning. The 

passenger said to the sailor, that his hands were so numb he 

must let go ; he could hold on no longer and must run the 

risk of being washed off; the noble sailor replied, " here, sir, 

shove your hands into my bosom and I will hold on to you, ' 

he did so, and the passenger, when telling the story, the 

tears gushed from his eyes; for said he, "when my frozen 

hands touched the warm, beating bosom of the noble fellow, 

I felt relief in a moment ; my left hand was directly over 

his heart, and thought I, here is a heart worth having, and 

may God bless the owner of it. " 

What would our country be good for without seamen? 
How many doctors, ministers and lawyers would it take to 
reef a top-sail on a dark, stormy night ? How many of that 
mass of nothings, which we daily come in contact with in the 
street, would it take to get a ship's anchor up ? The ladies 
well know how to appreciate the sailor. They show their 



348 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

magnanimity by their generous donations in establishing 
Bethels, Homes, and the various institutions for the benefit 
of seamen, who are now properly cared for and respected ; 
are no longer left as a prey to the merciless land-shark, 
many of whom, after keeping a sailor-boarding house for a 
few years, come out from poverty, to what are called rich 
men. Seamen can now go to a church of their own, under 
the charge of a kind pastor, who, it may be said, in truth too, 
is to them a father and a friend. 

I had now reached a period in my life, when it might be 
supposed, that I had become pretty well acquainted with 
mankind, or to use the common phrase, " had my eyeteeth 
cut." But I regret to say it was not so. The knowledge 
that a man gains at sea, is quite different from that which 
he requires for a life on shore. The seaman, may under- 
stand the management of his ship on the ocean, perfectly 
well, and be well posted in all nautical knowledge, well ac- 
quainted with their methods of transacting business in most 
foreign countries. And, even let him come under the appel- 
lation of " Model Captain, " who has by prudence and econ- 
omy laid up a few thousand dollars, and now wishes to leave 
a seafaring life, and engage in some business on shore. He 
gets into business, and at first has many friends. But ere 
long finds himself completely stripped, and must go to sea 
again. Yes, he must "hard lee" again. The landsmen 
were too many guns for him. He once thought that he knew 
something; and so he did. He knew what was honest, and 
if he had dealt with honest men only, would in all probabil- 
ity have been successful, and would have accomplished that 
for which he left the sea. 

But those who were his pretended friends, and by whose 
cunning he has been robbed, now pass him unnoticed, giving 
him the cold shoulder ! 

Reader, this is no fancy sketch. Many of those who have 
been thus victimized, and who are now " where the weary are 
at rest, and the wicked cease from, troubling," were well known 
everywhere, and whose names now stand registered among 
the members of the Boston Marine Society, with the prefixed 
asterisk. And there are, now, among us, living witnesses 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 349 

of the truth of what I have said before. There are now, 
livino- among us, some of those threadbare rascals, who 
would not hesitate, for the sake of gain, to take the last 
crumb of bread from a family of starving children. These 
fellows may be seen prowling around State street with a sort 
of "sneaking, hang-dog look ; " the tools of the note shaver, 
and of the dishonest speculator. Then there are knaves of 
a higher grade, who stand behind the screen, and when a 
case^of oppression has been perpetrated by the myrmidons in 
their employ, pretend to know nothing about it ! And yet 
these are looked up to, and respected f because they are rich. 
I once had occasion to meet a gentleman, in State street, at 
a certain hour. And, at the appointed time, I saw him be- 
side an elegant carriage, in earnest conversation with the 
occupant, and not wishing to intrude upon the conversation, 
just passed the open door, and quickly recognized the old 
gentleman with whom my friend was conversing. I stood 
aside, quietly awaiting the termination of what now appeared 
to be earnest entreaty. Soon the door was closed, my friend 
approached me wiping the perspiration from his brow, ex- 
claiming " Oh, dear ! it really seems that some men's hearts 
are harder than flint. I have been half an hour begging 
him to remit a debt of fifteen dollars, which was due him for 
the rent of a small tenement, by a widow woman, who 
washes in my family. She has been confined to her bed with 
rheumatism for several weeks, which has put her behindhand, 
and she is not able to pay it. The agent threatens to turn 
her out of doors, neck and heels, if the money is not paid. 
He refuses to have anything to do in the matter, saying, 
* that his agent must collect tiie rents.' Thus legalizing an 
act of brutality, that would disgrace a savage. _ And this 
modern Dives having in his possession half a million of dol- 
lars." . 
The kind gentleman, who endeavored so hard to allevi- 
ate the widow, paid the money, and procured her another 
tenement. " The rich man also died, and was buried." His 
property, of course, was disposed of according to ^ the will. 
Four of the sons turned out to be miserable inebriates, and 
went off, nobody knows where. 



350 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I do not mention these facts through invidiousness, or a de- 
sire to he personal. But, like the explorers of the north- 
west passage, who get among icehergs and icefloes, and 
who are often in imminent danger, and must quietly await 
the movements of the waters, which alone can extricate them 
from the chilling influence of these dangerous neighbors. 
So must all, who have fallen within the fangs of these un- 
principled men quietly wait, until they see what may be slow, 
yet sure, retributive justice. And yet, I should conceive it 
to be abruptness to close these remarks, without placing 
them in a somewhat antithetical shape. We have had a 
glance at the dark, and now let us look at the bright side. 

There are those among us now, and those that have gone 
to their glorious reward, whose names and memories " will 
be had in everlasting remembrance." Whose bounties have 
wiped the tear from many an orphan cheek, and made the 
widow and the fatherless sing for joy, the couch of the dying 
laborer, soft and easy, by promising to be kind to his helpless 
family, giving large sums for the purpose of propagating 
christian truth, and for disseminating useful knowledge among 
the indigent, and also of extending the hand of material 
friendship to those who were needy. The memory of these 
men draw the tear of affection, while for the others, scorn 
and contempt. 

But to return to my narrative. I was married a few 
weeks after my discharge from the Macedonian, and then 
intended to spend the remainder of my days on shore. I be- 
came a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and as 
I had now come to an anchor, made up my mind to go ahead 
with honesty, prudence, and economy. I became acquainted 
with many of the brethern, and was really happy. As I 
had about $2,000 which I had carefully saved, it appeared 
to me that it would be well invested, in the purchase of a 
small house. I soon heard of one, a short distance out of 
the city, and on examining it with my wife, concluded to 
purchase it. It belonged to a prominent member of our 
church. On my return from it one day, before I had consum- 
mated the bargain, I met another prominent member, and 
to whom I communicated my intended purchase. "Ah \" said 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 351 

he, " my dear brother, he careful how you deal with . He 

will twist you if you dont look sharp ! " 

"What!" said I, " will he cheat me?" 

" I don't say that he will cheat you, I only say lookout 
for him." 

I parted with my adviser and went home, " struck all 
aback/' told my wife what I had heard, who was as much 
astonished as I was. As I never had much experience in 
buying houses, up to that time, concluded that there must be 
something more intricate in the sale of a house than I knew 
anything about, so I let this purchase slide. I could not un- 
derstand this inferred libel on the Christian character of the 
seller, notwithstanding it prevented me from purchasing the 
house. But in justice to this individual, before I proceed any 
farther, would say that I was subsequently acquainted with 
him during thirty years of his life ; and can further add that 
he lived exemplary, and continued so until his death. Was 
a highly respected and prominent member of the Methodist 
church. 

As I had now given up the idea of buying a house, thought 
I would get a lot just out of the town, and build one to suit 
myself. I soon found a lot which could be bought at a fair 
price, but there was something of an ordeal to go through 
before I could have it. The land belonged to a miserly old 
fellow, into whose good graces a very popular neighbor had 
entwined himself It was for this neighbor to say who 
should and who should not come into the community, so I 
found it indispensably necessary to get on the right side of 
this " vigilance committee," before I could do anything with 
the old miser. After two or three interviews, he found out 
who I was, and I was then unanimously received. My lot was 
surveyed off and the deed drawn. When I went to say to 
the old gentleman that I would call to-morrow morning and 
pay the money, he, in a tremulous voice asked, "if the money 
would be in silver, or gold f 

I replied he could have it in either, when he preferred 
gold. Accordingly on the morrow, 1 carried the money to 
him in gold. He had a table prepared to count it (twenty- 
five eagles,) upon, and when his long, bony fingers clutched 



352 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the pieces, it reminded me of a cat, when she first nabs a 
mouse, looking round to see if any attempts are made to get 
it away. This old man was nearly eighty years old, and 
the sight of this paltry sum was truly electrifying. 

He died while I resided in the neighborhood, and on the 
evening before he expired, the doctor told him he might suck 
a piece of tender loin rarely broiled. He told the man who 
attended him to go to the butcher and ascertain how much 
he asked a pound for tender loin, and to come back and let 
him know. The man went and found the price to be four- 
teen cents a pound. The old man turned his languid and 
dying eyes towards the nurse and said, that was too dear, he 
could not afford it ! He soon died, leaving behind him about 
seventy-five thousand dollars, which he had scraped together 
by driblets and privation, much of which after his death went 
to the four winds. Truly " man heapeth up riches not know- 
ing who shall gather them." 

I called the next day to see how the lot looked, now it was 
mine. I found that the fence had been taken away and on 
enquiring, was told that my kind intercessor had taken it, 
which he claimed as his perquisite. I said nothing more 
about it, as it was too small a matter to make a fuss about. 
The next business in order was to contract with a builder ; 
and in this I was entirely green. I knew what kind of a 
house I wanted, and how to plan and build it, but to make 
specifications, and such a contract as that I should not be 
cheated, was more than I felt willing to undertake. As for 
what enquiries I had made among house builders, I found 
that prices varied in size very much like a basket of potatoes, 
some mighty large and some mighty small, so my chance of 
being cheated was in the ratio of the disparity. One of my 
brethren in the church and with whom I had been on inti- 
mate terms since our first acquaintance, was a house builder. 
I had requested him to give me his estimate, which he prom- 
ised to. He said to me one day : 

" Now, brother, you want to build a house. You have a 
little money which you want to lay out in the most economi- 
cal manner. I will build your house by the day, and charge 
you two dollars a day for my own time ; and hire the men as 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 353 

cheap as I can, charging you with just what I pay them. I 
will purchase the lumber at the lowest cash price, and in build- 
ing the house will save you a great deal of money." 

Now what could be fairer than this. I replied to him im- 
mediately, " go ahead." Not many days after, I happened 

to mention to one of the brethren that Brother was 

building a house for me. He took me by the button-hole, and 
with a low, but significant voice, enquired, if I had every- 
thing in writing. I replied : 

" No ; we have nothing but a verbal agreement." 
" Ah !" said he, " he'll cheat you, as sure as the world." 
" Why, how do you mean ?" I asked. 
" I mean just this, that he will decieve you." 
This completely upset me. I had paid him money when 
he asked for it, had made no enquiries about the expense al- 
ready incurred, leaving it all with my good honest brother, 
who had pledged himself to be faithful and look after my 
interests. Next day I went over to the building, but he was 
not there. I began to look round, feeling somewhat alarmed 
at what had been told me, and under the work bench, there 
lay a man drunk! one of his smart carpenters. I soon 
roused the fellow out, and forbade him doing anything more 
to the house. I found my builder and expressed my dissatis- 
faction at what I had seen, and the condition of things about 
the house. I requested him to furnish me with my account 
up to the present time, which he promised to do. It was sev- 
eral days before I got it, but I found that he had charged 
me twenty-five cents a day profit on each man, which was 
contrary to our agreement ; nevertheless I let it go without 
any complaint. On the following day I went over very early, 
before the time at which lie usually came. I took a young 
man who was a good workman, and had been at work on the 
house three weeks, and asked him to go all over the building, 
and make an estimate of what he would finish it up for, and 
have the estimate ready for me by to-morrow, desiring him 
to keep the matter entirely to himself. I requested my 
builder to do the same, which he did. And I believe there 
was a difference of about eighty dollars between the two. I 
now said to my good brother, that as the bills had run up 
w 



354 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



much faster than I had expected, I should pay him off, and 
let the young man finish it at his leisure. He then, as the 
Western men say, " rared right uj>," declaring he would not 
he put off so hy friend or foe. I thought it was time for my 
" dander to rise a little," so I just recapitulated our first 
agreement, and compared it with the result, also reminding 
him that he had completely come the brother over me, and 
the quicker we dissolved, the better, and after many hard 
words on both sides, he quit. 1 settled his bill as I thought, 
in full, but in a few days he brought me another, additional 
of twenty dollars, saying he had omitted certain charges. 1 
paid him that also, and we parted, apparently good friends. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

Commence business, — My father's death, — Start for Vermont, — Amusing 
incident, — Cold journey, — Arrive at Vermont, — Description of a Ver- 
mont family, — Agreeable evening, — Cold lodging, — Well entertained, 
— Visits, — Agreeable companions, — Happiness of contentment, — Sim- 
plicity of living, — Tough goose, — Excellent dinner, — Domestic indus- 
try and economy, — Curious idea of a ship, — Supper, — Same old goose. 
— Remain all night, — Breakfast, — Take leave, — Pleasant travelling 
companion, — Brief account of my uncle, — Remarks, — My uncle's idea 
of a fire, — His wish is gratified, — Invitation to go to Europe, — Sail for 
City Point, — Arrive there, — Visit Petersburg, — Go to church, — De- 
scription, — Go to Richmond, — On the way recieve some excellent ad- 
vice, — Arrive at Richmond, — Hospitality of the people, — Introduc- 
tion to a minister and his wife, — Dined, — Invited to tea, — Negroes, — 
Unwilling to join in family worship, — Walk out, — Caught in the rain, — 
Hospitality of a lady, — Kindness, — Affecting story, — Further attention 
and politeness, — Allusion to the destruction of the Richmond theatre, 
— Take leave, — Account of a slave sale. 

In 1822, I commenced business on my own account; and 
as nothing occurred of sufficient interest to record here, pass 
on to 1824, when my father, who was at my house on a visit, 
left us early on Monday morning for Vermont, whither he 
was going on a visit to his brother, who resided in Newfane. 

On Monday night, between the hours of eleven and twelve, 
I had been down the wharf to attend to moving a ship, and 
just as I had reached my door, a man stood there who had 
just rung the bell. I inquired what he wanted, and on 
learning my name, replied : 

" I have come in from Lexington to inform you of the 
death of your father, who died very suddenly at our house, 
at 4 o'clock, this afternoon." 

T had given my father two letters for my uncles, inviting 
them to call on me, should they ever come to Boston, and in 
these letters had given my name and residence. When it 
was ascertained that he was dead, they opened one of them, 



356 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

to know who he was, &c. This was the way in which I was 
so easily found. 

I immediately proceeded to Lexington to make the nec- 
essary arrangements for the funeral. The hotel keeper then 
gave me the following statement : 

" Your father stopped at my house ahout noon, and told 
me that he was unwell, and unable to proceed any further at 
present, and wished me to show him a room. I saw he was 
very weak and sick, and on reaching his room, his strength 
had entirely failed ; he laid down upon the bed, while I went 
for a doctor. I had hardly reached the stairway when I 
heard a fall. I hastened back to his room, and found him 
lying dead on the floor. He was immediately placed upon 
the bed again, and a doctor was sent for. A post mortem 
examination was held, and the cause of his death was said 
to be an obstruction near the heart." 

My father observed, on the evening previous to his depar- 
ture, that it had been his prayer that he might be permitted 
to see all the members of his family once more before his 
death, which prayer was thus signally answered. 

1 had never seen these uncles, and on the following winter, 
the sleiffhino; being remarkablv fine, I took a seat in the 
mail stage for Brattleboro, Vermont, and from there to ^ew- 
fane, about 18 miles distant, by private conveyance. The 
uncle I was now in quest of resided there. The day on 
which I started from Boston was bitter cold ; therefore I went 
to a clothing store and purchased a thick, drab overcoat to 
keep myself from freezing. When we arrived at Lowell, I 
got out, with the rest of the passengers, at the hotel door, 
and went in to the bar-room to warm myself. The loungers 
in the room, seemed to eye me closely, and wherever I went, 
it appeared that I was the object of their attraction. All 
at once my attention was directed to a placard which read 
thus : 

$50 REWARD. 

DARING ROBBERY. 

" Last night the house of the subscriber was entered, and 
the following articles stolen: A quantity of linen and 



*»cr"* 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 357 

woollen apparel, among which was a drab overcoat, with white 
mother-of-pearl buttons ; the coat nearly new." 

Exactly the description of the one I had on. It struck 
me at once that the coat I had on, was the reason why 1 was 
so much looked at, and the cause of the collection of men at 
the door. I must confess I felt rather awkward, for if they 
had arrested me on suspicion of being the house-breaker, 
merely from the similarity of the coat, I should of course 
have been obliged to have given my name, and residence, 
and in all probability would have been handed over to the 
sheriff. Thus I should have lost my passage, besides having 
my name trumpeted through all the papers, that I had been 
arrested for house-breaking in Lowell, when I was fast asleep 
with my wife in Boston ; and that I had stolen a coat which 
I had bought only a few hours before, of Gove & Lock, in 
Ann street. 

When the stage was ready, I walked through the crowd, 
got in, and we drove off. It was very evident from all ap- 
pearances, that these people actually thought that the coat 
I had on, was the one stolen, as it exactly answered the de- 
scription, even to the velvet collar. 

We left Lowell and passed through the southern edge of 
New Hampshire, over the turnpike, and a more dismal look- 
ing region I have never seen in the wildest part of Russia ; 
and in passing through one of the towns, I saw a sign 
on an old dilapidated shanty, Elizabeth Saltmarsh, dress- 
maker. And in one of the small villages in the northern 
edge of Massachusetts, was a Mr. E. D. Greenfield, attorney- 
at-law. I thought if the parties were not married, what a 
union this would make. A Greenfield with a Saltmarsh ; 
and when the Saltmarsh would be merged in the Greenfield, 
the cutting and trimming would be done by the Greenfield 
mowers. 

We arrived at Brattleboro late at night. T was nearly 
torpid with cold, and as there was a good fire burning in the 
kitchen, we, half frozen passengers, took possession of the 
fire place, and when sufficiently thawed, ordered a supper, 
which, in the course of an hour, they gave us. Early next 
morning, I procured a private conveyance to Newfane, 



358 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and when we had arrived at the edge of the town, I began 
to enquire for Squire Bobbins' place. 

" O, Squire Bobbins, the forehanded man. Ain't he — " 

" Well, I don't know how many hands or how many feet he 
has, but I want to find Mr. Asa Bobbins of Newfane." 

" Well, yes ; you see yonder hill with the red building on 
the side ? " 

" Yes." 

" Well, that's Squire Bobbins' farm." 

I stopped at a tavern about half a mile from the place, to 
adjust my dress, and in the operation thought that I should 
have frozen. And of all the places, in any of the Northern 
regions, that I have ever visited, I think Vermont is the 
coldest. As I had but half a mile to go, I started off 
through the snow, went up to the house, and enquired for 
Mr. Bobbins. He came to the door, I told him who I was. 
He shook my hand and invited me in, and received me with 
much cordiality, calling all the family to see their new 
cousin. He had a rousing fire in the kitchen, over which I 
had another good thawing, and it being Saturdav evening, 
the unmarried boys and girls were at home. We had a good 
tuck out of nuts, apples, cider and doughnuts, and such a 
fire ! The great fire in London, of 166G, was somewhat 
larger, but certainly not much hotter. The fireplace was 
ten feet long, four feet deep, and from the hearth to the flue 
was six feet, and this was filled with ignited hickorv logs, 
in full blast, from end to end. As it was very seldom that 
these peojrie met with any one from the Atlantic States, my 
visit was rather interesting. We conversed on many subjects, 
till nearly twelve o'clock, when I began to feel rather sleepy. 

My cousin Melissa, conducted me to my room, and bade 
me good night. After closing the door, I felt a dreadful 
chill, and on examining the bed clothes, was fearful that I 
should lie cold. Then there was a shower-bath in one 
corner of the room, the sight of which made me shudder ; 
and after getting into bed and tucking myself up nicely, 
began to shake in good style. Sleep was out of the question, 
and after shivering away two or three hours, I got into a 
doze and dreamed that I was lvingon an iceberg. Although 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 359 

suffering from cold, I could not refrain from laughing at the 
sudden transition and contrast of life. Last evening I was 
nearly roasted, and from the time I went to bed till I arose, was 
nearly frozen. As soon as daylight appeared, I heard a stir 
down stairs, and was very soon along-side the crater of 
Vesuvius. I told Melissa that I had been very cold all 
night. " There, now, cousin Sam, I don't believe you shot 
your winder down." No, I shut no window ; and lo ! right 
at my head was an open window, with just a curtain before 
it, which, in some measure, accounted for the temperature of 
my bedroom, which seemed to be many degrees below zero. 
But we had a substantial breakfast : for my uncle had his 
larder well stocked with good things. Instead of an ice- 
house he had a snow-shed, filled solid and packed with snow, 
in which he kept his variety of meats and fish. As it was 
the Sabbath, and there being but one meeting-house in the 
village, and tw T o sects, and each had their minister on alter- 
nate Sundays, it not being our turn to-day, we spent the 
time in talking over miscellaneous matters. Towards noon, 
I began to look around for some signs of dinner, when 
my uncle, rather suspecting that 1 was not acquainted 
with their Sunday arrangements, observed to me that the 
dinner hour on that day was six o'clock P. M. We however 
partook of a good lunch, and at evening, of a sumptuous din- 
ner, after which several of the cousins came in and we had 
quite an agreeable time. 

Next day I visited among their families, and was pecul- 
iarly struck with the patriarchal simplicity and happiness 
that existed among them. I think there were five in the 
group, and situated on the southern slope of a hill, and all 
within a few rods of the parental mansion. In each family 
there were two or three healthy, pretty children. The wives 
were employed in carding, spinning, or weaving, and one or 
two grandmothers were comfortably seated and knitting. 
Each family had two or more cows, a few sheep, pigs, and 
lots of poultry, and land enough to afford them, with hard 
work and strict economy, a good living, and some silver 
change to lay up in the stocking. Another of the cousins, 
Mrs. Gaffield, lived a little farther off. Mr. G , when 



360 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



he married was a "forehanded man," a hatter by trade ; 
and owned four acres of land, with a small house containing 
three rooms, and a hatter's shop ten feet by eight upon it. 
His whole estate he valued at six hundred dollars, and con- 
sidered himself independent of the world. He invited me to 
come over and dine with him on the following day ; also to 
spend the evening, on which occasion he invited his friends 
and relations. 1 soon found that in consequence of having 
come from Boston, and by amusing them with accounts of 
different parts of the world, that I had become quite a lion 
among them. 

Accordingly, on Tuesday, I was on hand at friend Gaf- 
field's, when he showed me round his place. First, I must 
see the sty where he raised his fat hog that weighed nearly 
four hundred pounds ; then I must see the fine caoivs and 
lastly, his hat shop, which was a curiosity ; and without any 
attempt at describing it, will only say, that, if a man could 
manufacture a hat in this pen, then there are no limits to 
his ingenuity ; and yet this plain, noble hearted and honest 
man, made, on an average, three hats a month, and was now 
making one for the deacon for which he was to receive three 
dollars ; and all in silver, because these pesky bills were so 

uncertain. Dinner beino* now readv, we went in. Mrs. G 

had been flying round ; and from the way in which the feath- 
ers flew in the morning, I knew that one or more bipeds 
must lose their lives on my account. And so it appeared, 
for on the table was a goose, the smell of which was enough 
to do one good ; which alas ! was all that I was to have of 
it. Besides the goose, there was an abundant supply of fine 
yellow potatoes, apple-sauce, and various kinds of pies, with 
leather tops and green hide bottoms, excellent sage cheese, the 
finest bread and sweetest butter I ever tasted. Friend Gaf- 
field now began to sharpen his knife by rubbing two together 
preparatory to dissecting the goose ; which I could see by 
the manner in which his keen eyes rested upon it, that he 
knew the nature of his job. At first, with much effort he 
forced the fork into the breast, and commenced dissecting 
the leg, but it was of no use, the knife would not penetrate 
those veteran sinews. He next tried the wing, but might as 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 361 

well have attempted to cut the flukes from an anchor. At 
length, the kind lady innocently suggested, that she was 
afraid the goose was tough. The perspiration was now run- 
nine* down poor Joe's face ; and he next attempted to hack 
off a piece from the breast, winch he succeeded in doing, and 
placed it on my plate. I was busy however eating the nice 
potatoes and goose gravy. The poor fellow now gave it 
up in despair, freely acknowledging that it was the tough- 
est goose he ever had seen. Notwithstanding, I made an 
excellent dinner, and we had a good joke over this antiquat- 
ed bird, that doubtless was the veritable, or a descendant of 
the cacklers in the temple of Juno at Rome, who awakened 
Marcus Manlius, in time to pitch the Gauls headlong down 
the Tarpeian rock, and thus saved Rome. 

As we expected company in the evening, and as it was very 
cold, I remained in the house during the afternoon and spent 
the time in agreeable conversation with my excellent and in- 
dustrious cousin, Almost every article of furniture was of 
her own or her husband's make. Carpets, bed-quilts and 
every article of clothing in the family, excepting shoes, and 
her Sunday gown, were of her manufacture. Her pretty 
calico gown she had bought at " the store" for eleven dozen 
of eggs, and her best shoes for six dozen. She paid twenty- 
five cents in money to have her dress cut and basted ; 
whether by Elizabeth Saltmarsh, or a competitor, she did 
not inform me. But it had been worn two summers, and had 
not come to wear yet At evening, the company assembled. 
There were about half a dozen young men, and one, pretty 
well advanced. The chief topic of conversation was about 
ships, how such great things could float on the water ; 
neither of them had ever seen a ship or been out of Ver- 
mont. 

11 Joe Gafneld," says, cousin Sam, " I don 't see how a ship 
can stand up with them great Jo-fired, long masts ? " 

" Oh," says the old gentleman, " they put in rocks for 
balancing, then they put the load right on top of the rocks, 
and then sail along." 

"Well," says another, " it must take a deuced sight of 
timber to make one." 



362 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" Oh, yes," replied the old gentleman, " it would take all 
of Tom Brazier's lot to make one ship." And after a pause 
of a few seconds, Joe Gaffield, with a very earnest look says, 

" Cousin Sam, they tell me, that the housen in Boston, are 
all brick. 1 should think they ivould all sink right daown ; and 
some of 'em are higher than our meeting-house, and sometimes 
they ketch fire. I ivould' nt sleep in one on 'em for all 
Boston.'" 

It was now twelve o'clock, when we were invited to take 
supper in the kitchen, and by hard squeezing, we managed 
to sit around the table, and while we were talking, our in- 
dustrious hostess was preparing a hot supper. She had man- 
aged by some means to cut the goose in pieces, and had 
stewed it with potatoes and onions : it truly was a nice 
mess, but after all, who ever undertook to tackle a bone 
with an idea of getting any meat from it, was much deceived ; 
which was easily seen from the manner in which they were 
slyly laid aside. But the remainder of the fixings were first- 
rate, and the time passed merrily, and if any of them are 
alive now, they will remember that night. 

I had appointed the next morning for my departure, and 
as it was quite late, was persuaded to remain there all 
night. They made a nice bed on the floor for me, and with 
plenty of rugs and carpets, I slept very comfortable. At 
daylight my good cousin had breakfast under way, which at 
seven o'clock, was smoking hot on the table. Here was the 
old goose stewed up again, and tough as ever. I made a 
capital breakfast on hot potatoes, sweet butter, and excel- 
lent bread and cheese, with a cup of good rye coffee and 
cream. I took an affectionate leave of these kind-hearted, 
and happy people, and was to leave ISewfane, for Brattle- 
boro in a covered sleigh, and when the driver called for 
me, was told, that I had a fellow passenger in the shape of 
a very sociable young lady, who had been keeping school 
at Newfane, and was returning home to New Hampshire. 

Here we were, both of us wrapped up together in a buffalo 
robe, bouncing over stone walls, stumps of trees, and no 
matter what, there was no road. All the distance to Brattle- 
boro was one vast sea of snow ; but the driver being a good 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 363 

navigator, brought us safe into port at about ten o'clock at 
ni^ht. One object in thus detailing iny visit to Vermont, is 
to show what every one knows, that true happiness does not 
consist in wealth, popularity, or emolument. Take, if you 
please, this one family or community, commencing with Mr. 
Robbins, who, in 1795, having just married, went from 
Worcester to his present location, with but forty cents left, 
after his arrival in this, then wilderness, and on the spot 
where his house now stands, he built a rude hut for present 
shelter ; took up several acres of woodland, which he cleared 
away, and with some assistance from the neighbors, who 
were scattered around within 15 miles, erected a house, and 
cleared a few acres ready for planting, in the following 
spring, and without entering more minutely into his begin- 
ning, he had, when I visited him, several thousand dollars 
in the Brattleboro Bank, three hundred acres of excellent 
land, well stocked, and sent large quantities of butter, 
cheese and pork, annually to Boston. His family were set- 
tled around him and all enjoying the height of human 
happiness, industry and content. And if we should attempt 
to draw the contrast between this happy community, and the 
continual and fevered excitement which prevails in our 
cities, — men rushing headlong to perdition, for the sake of 
grasping another dollar, tugging and delving through the 
anxieties of the day, retiring at night upon their downy beds, 
weary and exhausted, not to sleep, but too often to dread the 
approach of to-morrow, — we shall see that industry and 
frugality are twin sisters, who point heavenward, while 
avarice and covetousness completely extinguishes that noble 
principle which the Creator gave us, as forming one of the 
chief elements of our free agency. The covetous and grasping 
man loves no one but himself. The acquisition of wealth 
forms the focus of every feeling. The salvation of his own 
and the souls of his family come not within the sphere of his 
anxieties. And though he may be aged and his daughters 
apparently well married to whiskered and moustached ex- 
pectants, and his sons making large calculations on the old 
man's death, and perhaps at a Thanksgiving dinner party 
he may look around with much complacency, being the root 



364 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of these prolific branches, which will flourish more exu- 
berantly when the root is in the ground. 

Then his miserly and covetous acquisitions soon go to the 
four winds, and as it often happens in the alternations of 
fortune that the third generation are doomed to penury and 
want. 

My uncle Bobbins, once, in conversation about fires in 
Boston, enquired if they were easily extinguished, to which 
I replied that the fire department were probably the most 
efficient in the world. He replied that he had never seen 
a house on fire, and were.it not for the loss and distress 
occasioned by it, he should like to see a good large fire. It 
so happened not long after, that he was on a visit to Boston, 
when the old glass-house in Essex street was burned. He 
was at my house at the time. We both went to the fire, and 
lie seemed perfectly frantic with curiosity, and I had hard 
work to keep him from breaking through the lanes. And, as 
it was, he got pretty well ducked, for venturing too far. 

In May, 1830, business being rather dull, I had an invi- 
tation from a particular friend, to accompany his son, (a 
young gentleman just preparing for college,) on a short tour 
through England ; he having a ship about ready to sail, first 
going south for a freight of cotton, and then to Liverpool. 
I accepted the offer, and we sailed on the loth of May, in 
the ship Kobin Hood, Capt. John Candler, for City Point, on 
James river, Virginia. 

On arriving there, Capt. Candler found his freight ready, 
and it would probably require ten days to load the ship. I 
went over to Petersburg to pass a few days, and spent a very 
pleasant Sabbath in attending the Methodist church for 
colored people. It stood in a beautiful grove, a short dis- 
tance from the town. The day was fine, the birds pouring 
forth their sweetest notes, and the gentle breeze wafting its 
fragrance through the fine woods, made it truly enchanting. 
The preacher was a colored man, and excepting the negro 
accent and pronunciation, the sermon was as good as I had 
ever heard in my life. The singing cannot be described, but 
must be heard to be appreciated. Besides the regular choir, 
the whole congregation join in. And people may talk of 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 365 

opera, Hungarian, and any other kind of singers, but I had 
never heard voices so soft and melodious as those of the fe- 
male slaves at this rural place, and others of which I shall 
have occasion to refer. 

On Monday morning, we took the stage for Richmond, 
and had, as fellow passengers, a gentleman and his lady, 
who had just returned from London. On his learning that 
I was o'oino; to England, kindly offered me a few words of 
advice, which I was very happy to receive, and as the sequel 
will show, were of essential benefit to me. The gentleman 
continued : 

" My remarks will apply principally to London ; before 
you leave Liverpool, determine on the hotel at which you 
intend to stop, on your arrival at London ; and when the 
coach reaches its stopping-place, order the cabman to drive 
you immediately to your pluce of selection, and be careful 
not to let any one know that you are a stranger. On your 
arrival at the hotel, say in a careless manner to the head 
waiter, who usually receives travellers, ' Waiter, pay the 
cabman," which he will do, and you will not be cheated ; 
then ask him to conduct you to a room, make your own bargain 
as to price and location ; and when you book your name, say 
that Liverpool is the place from whence you came ; for if 
you say United States, you will have tag-rag and bob-tail 
after you, with all sorts of things to sell ; besides, your pretty 
bar-maid will be sure to make you pay for seeing London, 
which you will ascertain when you receive your bill. 

"In London, you seldom have any dealings with the land- 
lord, the business being transacted by the bar-maid. Be- 
sides all this, when you leave, every individual servant in 
the house expects a fee from you ; and if they know you to 
be an American, will expect double the sum that they usually 
receive from an Englishman. 

"In passing through the principal streets, probably a gen- 
teel looking fellow will approach you with a very polite bow, 
take your hand, and greet you as if you were an old ac- 
quaintance, at the same time assuming a sort of perplexity 
at not remembering where he had the pleasure of last seeing 
you, and kindly requesting you just to step in, as he wishes 



3G6 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

to enquire for a particular friend, with whom he is sure you are 
well acquainted. Now if you are simpleton enough to enter, 
the door is immediately closed, aud after being robbed, you 
are passed out of a backdoor into some obscure alley, to 
make the best of your way out. And when you stop to look 
at a print shop window, be sure to have one hand on your 
watch, and the other upon your wallet, for there are always 
pickpockets at all such places/' 

I thanked the gentleman very kindly for this piece of 
pre-information, and it will appear, as I proceeded, that 
everything was true, and as I said before, of infinite service 
to me. 

At Richmond, I stopped at the Eagle hotel, and directly 
opposite was an auctioneer's block for selling slaves, or, as 
they call them, servants. I took a walk through the city, and 
was much pleased with the people, for they were certainly very 
hospitable. On Sabbath day, I introduced myself to the 
minister, after the morning service, when he with much po- 
liteness, invited me home to dine. I accepted the invitation, 
and on arriving there, was introduced to his wife, who was also 
a preacher, usually supplying some pulpit every Sabbath. 
We dined on Virginia ham, green peas, and iced milk, and an 
excellent dinner it was. I was also invited home to tea, 
after the afternoon service ; both minister and wife were so 
urgent that I could not resist the invitation. After tea, we 
had family devotion, but the servants would not come in. 
Mrs. Harris told me that they would never come in to family 
worship, saying, as an excuse, that they didn't believe in 
white men's prayers. In sauntering along, one day, it began 
to rain ; as 1 had no umbrella, and was far from my hotel, I 
stopped a moment to consider, when a door opened right 
against me, and an elderly lady very politely invited me in. 

It was quite a genteel house ; the lady conducted me into 
a handsome parlor, expressing herself highly gratified that 
I happened to be so near her house. I told her I was a 
stranger in Richmond, and on my way to England. She 
now evinced quite an interest in my journey, enquiring if I 
had a family ; and when I named that I had a daughter, 
the good old lady burst into tears, and then told me, that 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 367 

only a few weeks ago, she had lost her only daughter; her 
darling child. She then related the particulars of her sick- 
ness and death. And, although it would be almost as easy 
to squeeze a tear out of a grindstone as from my eyes, 
yet the old lady brought them. I could not hear the story 
of the death of her daughter without a little melting. She 
was taken suddenly with an obstruction in the bowels, and 
when the doctor told her that she could not live, she request- 
ed that her Sunday scholars might be sent for. They came, 
she took each by the hand, and in a most affectionate man- 
ner, bade them be sure and meet her in Heaven. They all 
kissed her, when she immediately expired. 

The old lady could say no more at present; but after she 
had become somewhat composed, invited me into her garden, 
which was fragrant with flowers, and sweet shrubbery. After 
we were re-seated in the parlor, she related the particulars 
of that dreadful and fatal disaster, the burning of the 
Theatre. She named one family that had lost nearly every 
member. The play was one of unusual attraction. Three 
lovely daughters, a brother, and the mother, all perished 
in each others arms; and a young naval officer, who had 
succeeded in getting out, and was shortly to be married to 
the eldest, not finding the young lady among the rescued, 
plunged into the fire, determined to rescue her or die, and 
poor fellow he perished ! 

The weather now being fine, I took an affectionate leave 
of the good old lady, returned to my hotel, and spent the 
evening with a very intelligent gentleman, from the North, 
who entertained me with an account of a slave sale that 
took place a few da} r s before, opposite the hotel. There were 
two boys, and a young woman, about twenty-four years of 
age, to be sold. The woman was a bright mulatto, but had 
rather a sickly appearance. She was very decently dressed 
with a white handkerchief over her bosom, and a pink one 
on her head. 

The auctioneer put her up, and the first offer was two 
hundred dollars, and after hanging on this bid rather over 
a minute, a man stepped up, and whispered something into 
the auctioneer's ear. He drew himself up at full length, 



368 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and with a very solemn look, says: "Gentlemen, I am in- 
formed that this woman, Martha, has religion, and understands 
the management of children, is a good seamstress, and is ac- 
quainted ivith all sorts of housework. Gentlemen she has re- 
ligion! How much am I offered for this valuable servant? 
I am offered two hundred and fifty, three hundred, three 
hundred and fifty, four hundred! Gentlemen, she has re- 
ligion! and I am offered only four hundred dollars for this 
pious servant. Four hundred and fifty " and she was finally 
knocked off for five hundred dollars. 

During all this time her eyes were steadily fixed upon the 
ground, and when an indecent question was asked by a slave 
dealer, she gently raised her head, and gave the fellow such 
a look. Her new master sent her off in a wagon, probably 
in the country. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

Return to City Point,— Ship not ready,— Screwing Cotton,— Nigger's 
Song, — Acquaintance with a Slave blacksmith,— He is a Methodist 
Preacher, — A worthy man, — Ship loaded, — Run out of the Bay, — 
Pleasant passage,— Go ashore at Hollyhead,— Pleasant trip to Liver- 
pool,— Menai bridge,— Arrive at Chester,— Breakfast, — Arrive at Liv- 
erpool. — Walk out on the Manchester Railroad, — Continue at St. 
Helens, — Well received, — Visit to a Brewery, — Take too much beer, — 
Leave in rather a bad plight,— Take tea,— Don't like the cream,— Go 
to the house,— Retire,— Very sick,— Thirsty in the night,— Found 
water,— Arise early,— Take a cup of tea,— Start off,— Rain —Disap- 
pointment, — Determined to proceed to Liverpool in the rain,— Per- 
severance,— Arrive at my boarding house,— All right,— Laughable ef- 
fect of my story,— Take passage for London,— Pleasant view from the 
top of the coach, — Pass through many interesting towns, — New 
Castle-under-Lyme, — See the first locomotive engine,— Pass through 
Wolverhampton, — Interesting sight, — Arrive at Birmingham, — Remain 
all night,— Start early next morning,— Irish companion— His igno- 
rance of the United States,— His enquiries, — Left us at Coventry, — 
Peeping Tom, — Pass through Weeden, — Yankee doodle —Dreadful- 
Arrive 'at London, — All right,— Call on a gentleman, — Not in,— His 
visit to me,— Two ladies call,— Their embarrassment,— Explanation, — 
Accompany them home, — Pleasant interview, — Mr. Henford very at- 
tentive, — Pleasant excursion to Deptford and Greenwich,— Pensioners. 

I returned to City Point in the steamer. Our ship was not 
yet full, which gave me an opportunity of seeing how the 
niggers screwed cotton ; and think, if I had a ship, that was 
of any value, she should never be screwed as the Robin 
Hood was. Curiosity led me into the hold to hear the boys 
sing, and to see how they managed. The head stevadore, a 
very intelligent slave, took the measure of the space, and 
selected the bale accordingly ; the bales were generally about 
two feet by thirty inches square, and when the space was but 
about twelve or fourteen inches, or too small to admit one, 
two planks were inserted three or four feet, between the two, 
the outer ends were kept far enough apart to receive the bale, 
x 



370 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and the inside well greased. A sampson post, which is a 
piece of timber nine or ten inches square with notches to re- 
ceive the end of the jack-screw, is placed diagonally at the 
end of the bale to be screwed ; the upper end of the post 
against the beam and the lower end resting on the bales of 
the lower tier. The bale is now well greased, entered, and a 
powerful jack-screw firmly fixed against the sampson post 
and the end of the bale ; and, to any one unacquainted with 
the process, it would seem impossible that it could ever be 
forced into that small space, but we shall soon see. The 
screw is now set taut, and a handspike attached to the crank, 
and six powerful negroes take hold and give two or three 
turns, then hold on a minute. The old boss stevadore, by way 
of encouragement, says, u Boys, dat bale got to go dar ;" 
one of the darkies commences in a drawling tone, "Massa 
be berry good man. 97 The chorus " whagh" round goes the 
screw, crack goes the beams, and in goes the bale. " Missey 
berry good lady too. She biley de eggs and gib nigger 
debroff; whagh ! " " Ah, boys yon do dat nice.' 11 By 
this time the ebony faces begin to shine like a newly blacked 
boot, and then comes the sweet smelling savor wafting by, 
like the spicy breezes of Ceylon ; but the bale is in though. 
And when the Irish stevadores in Liverpool get hold of a 

hard tier, you'll hear them cursing the nagers for 

squazing it so hard. 

While we were at City Point w r e had several small jobs of 
iron work which the captain wished me to attend to. The 
blacksmith was a very intelligent negro, and a Methodist 
preacher. It was really a pleasure to converse with him. 
He was the property of a widow lady in Richmond, and, in 
consequence of his excellent character, she had given him 
permission to work any- where in the State, by paying her a 
certain portion of his earnings. And truly this poor, rich 
slave was mighty in the Scriptures. He was a finely formed, 
self-educated man, and what leisure time I had was spent in 
conversation with him. Yes, reader, I passed many an 
agreeable hour with this nigger and if you are as sure of 
Heaven as he then was, and \ may add now is, you are truly 
happy. And when unable to work, if his life is spared, 



: 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 371 

after all his toil, he may go to his mistress, and, in the 
language of King Lear, say to her, "Here I stand, your 
slave, a poor, infirm, weak, and despised old man." 

Our cargo being now on board, the ship was dropped 
down the river, we took a fine south-west wind and run out 
of the bay in fine style. We had a very pleasant passage 
and arrived off Hollyhead on the Fourth of July. It being 
foggy, our number could not be distinguished at the signal 
station therefore a boat came off to us, for the necessary in- 
formation.. I gave them half a guinea to take me ashore ; 
as by landing here I should have an opportunity of going 
through Wales, and of crossing the strait between the Isle of 
Anglesea and the main land, on the celebrated Menai suspen- 
sion bridge, under which ships of the largest class could pass 
with all sail set. I learned on my arrival ashore that George 
Fourth had just expired, which caused much excitement 
throughout the country. I took the coach the same after- 
noon for Liverpool, 116 miles distant. We rode all night; 
the weather was remarkably fine and I could see to read most 
of the time. Arrived early next morning at Chester, a very 
ancient town, which is on the line of division between Eng- 
land and Wales. Here we took breakfast, changed the coach 
and started for Liverpool. I had felt for many years a strong 
desire to see England : 

And now on Albion's shore, 

I meant to view the landscape o'er. 

The railroad between Liverpool and Manchester had just 
been surveyed, a portion of it graded and the rails laid. As 
I had a letter of introduction to a gentleman at St. Helens, 
twelve miles distant from Liverpool, started one morning for 
a walk on the track, and if not too much fatigued meant to 
continue on to St. Helens, which I did, and arrived there at 
10 o'clock A. M., found the gentleman to whom I was intro- 
duced ; and was received with much kindness and attention. 
As 1 did not intend to remain there but a day, he took me in 
his chaise for a ride round the country. On our return we 

stopped at Mr. S 's brewery, said to be one of the largest 

in England. I was introduced to Mr. S as a gentleman 

from America ; he was a monstrous big man, yet he assured 



372 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

me that before be commenced bis brewery be weigbed but 
one hundred and fifty-eight pounds, now his weight was over 

twenty-one stones, about three hundred pounds. Mr. S 

of course took it for granted that as we had no such exten- 
sive breweries in the United States, a sight of his would be 
to me interesting. Accordingly we entered the first room, 
which contained twelve large vats, holding many thousand 
gallons of beer, of different ages. Frequently turning to 
me, and asking: 

" Have you anything like tliis in America?" 

When about half way through, we were, by his request, 
seated. He called out : 

" John, bring me a gill of four year old Porter." 

Conscience ! a gill of Porter among three ! but I soon 
found what a gill meant. John came with a quart measure 
full and foaming, with three handsomely cut glass goblets. 
He filled one and handed it to me, which I just tasted and 
returned to him. 

" What !" said he, " is it not good ?" 

" Oh, yes sir, excellent, but my head will not bear it." 

" Oh, nonsense ! 'tis as mild as milk." 

My friend had tossed his off, and like Oliver Twist, held 
out his glass for more. He too, assured me how mild it was. 
So I drank half the contents of the goblet and pronounced 
it firstrate. We then commenced our walk again, visiting 
another apartment, where the bottling was done; here were 
men, women and children, all at work, in every stage of the 
bottling process And now we must try a bottle of Old Stout. 

By this time I began to feel how mild the four years old 
Porter was. I really felt about half " smothered," but no ex- 
cuse could prevail, I must try the Stout. So I drank about 
half a table glass full, which I feared would be the ounce 
that was to break the camel's back. I now felt intoxicated, 
and would have given the world to have been clear of this 
horrid place. 

We were invited into the house, and when seated in a 

splendid parlor, Mr. S rang a small hand bell. A plump 

Irish girl answered the summons. "Mary, bring a jug of 
the old Burton from the further arch." So Mary brought up 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 373 

a can of old Burton ale. Mr. S began his usual enco- 
mium on his good stuff, the " best in England" The Burton 
glasses were put upon the table and filled. Now I must 
drink the host's health, which I positively declined, although 
I had never tasted Burton ale in my life, yet, was fearful it 

might be too strong. Mr. S , with much vehemence as- 

sured me that it was smooth as oil. I gave way again, and 
put the glass to my lips, and sure enough it was smooth as oil, 
for half the liquid went down my throat before I was aware 
of it. And now I had reached the climax, for, be it known 
to all Johnny Raw's, that Burton ale is little inferior to 
brandy, especially if it is old. Now I was completely intox- 
icated, yet my senses were not in the least impaired. I was 
aware of my condition, and how I came so, and here was my 
friend rubbing his hand over his vest buttons, and looking 
towards me and saying, "Oh ! how nice I feel." But we had 
not finished yet. Next came the bottle of brandy, and now 
w T e must drink the health of the new king, William IV., 
which I again positively declined. I was sick as death, be- 
sides feeling very faint. The door was only a short distance 
on my left, but how to reach it puzzled me. Everything ap- 
peared to be flying round topsy-turvy, so I waited " till the door 
came round, and then made a spring, and luckily caught the 
knob, and reached the outside. The cool breeze in some meas- 
ure restored me. Mr. S came out, insisting on my 

drinking King William's health. I now began to remon- 
strate by telling him that I was already intoxicated, and pos- 
itively refused to take a drop of anything more within my 
lips. My friend, Mr. Gray, came out and began urging me 
to try a little brandy. I begged him to take me away from 
this place, which he said he would do, when he had taken 

leave of Mr. S . I managed to get into the chaise, and 

we drove away from that detestable brewery, and on our way 
to his house, he stopped at his sister's. As it was about tea 
time, we were invited to join them. I had an impression 
that a cup of tea would make me feel better. We were soon 
seated round the table and the servant handed me a cup 
of tea, and in her other hand she held a black earthern 



374 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

pitcher, and was about pouring something into my cup. I 
asked her what she had there. 

" Rum, sir" said she, " His very good in tea !" 

" Well, please take it away from me." 

The very smell of the rum took away my appetite. After re- 
maining there a short time, we went to his house. I request- 
ed Mrs. Gray to show me where I could lie down. She gave me 
an excellent bed, in a handsomely furnished chamber. At 
midnight I awoke in a high fever and parched with thirst. 
I had forgotten where the door was, and knew not how I 
should obtain water. It was quite dark, and in fumbling 
round, came across the washstand, and fortunately there was 
water in the pitcher. Whether it was clean I could not as- 
certain, but was willing to run the risk. I drank a hearty 
draught, and went to bed again ; but felt very faint. I 
turned out at daylight, asked the girl in the kitchen to give 
me a cup of warm tea, which she very kindly did, adding to 
it a piece of toast. I felt so anxious to get away from St. 
Helens that as soon as I had taken my tea, requested the 
girl to give my respects to Mr. and Mrs. Gray, and say to 
them that I wished to catch the Manchester coach for Liver- 
pool, and that was the reason why I started so early. In 
order to meet the coach, I had to cross a moor some two or 
three miles wide, but had not left the house more than twenty 
minutes before it began to rain most furiously. I had nei- 
ther umbrella nor overcoat, my shoes were quite thin, and 
what was worse than all, was quite unwell from the effects 
of yesterday. When I reached the Manchester coach office 
there was not room for another passenger until the afternoon. 
Here I was in a dilemma; wet through, sick, and twelve 
miles from Liverpool. 

I began to soliloquize. "Well, what is to be done now? 
Among strangers, wet through, and cold. All at once, as 
though moved by a sudden impulse, I started from the coach 
office, the rain still pouring, and walked off four miles an 
hour, until I had reached within four miles of Liverpool. I 
was weary and hungry, and stepped aside from the road into 
a cottage where there was a woman and a little child. I 
sat down a few moments, and found I was growing stiff. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 375 

The good woman had nothing to offer me to eat, so I picked 
myself up again and finished my journey by two o'clock, P. 
M., and strange as it may appear, when I entered my board- 
ing-house, had completely recovered my strength and felt as 
well as I ever did in my life, although I had been soaked 
in the rain since five o'clock in the morning, and had eaten 
nothing but a little toast. There were a number of ship- 
masters at our boarding-house, and when I told them the 
story of my journey to St. Helens and back ; they were con- 
vulsed with laughter ; and it served to make fun for us while 
we were together. I had now seen as much of Liverpool as 
I desired, and took a seat on the " Tally-lio" for London. 

Most travellers in England in those days, rode upon the top 
of the coach, as it was more pleasant, and less expensive, besides 
affording the traveller a better prospect of the country. The 
risk of rain however must be taken into consideration, as it 
is very inconvenient to hold an umbrella when the passen- 
gers are crowded. We left Liverpool for London in high 
glee, passing through many interesting villages and man- 
ufacturing towns. The first town of any note that drew my 
attention, was New Castle-under-Lyme, in Staffordshire. It 
stands on a branch of the Trent, and when the coach stop- 
ped to shift horses, I noticed opposite the inn a printed bill 
upon the post of a gate leading up to an extensive machine 
establishment. The advertisement ran thus : " On exhibi- 
tion at the machine works on the hill, a steam carriage that 

will draw — tons on a level road, miles an hour. 

Price of admittance, one shilling." This was the first loco- 
motive engine that we have any account of. We passed 
through Wolverhampton just after dark. The atmosphere be- 
ing rather hazy, it looked like the infernal regions ; fires 
blazing up in all directions from the numerous blasting fur- 
naces. It has also been completely undermined by coal- 
diggers, and in many instances the earth floors of the cot- 
tages have fallen through. We passed many interesting 
towns, which, on approaching, the guard played most beau- 
tifully on the bugle. The coach arrived quite late at Bir- 
mingham, where we remained until morning. On leav- 
ing B., 1 had a fellow traveller at my side — an Irish 



r»i7 



76 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

gentleman, who appeared to be well informed on everything 
but Geography and the History of the United States, of which 
he was as ignorant as a mule. I have always found the 
English to be sadly deficient in a knowledge of any other 
country than their own. This gentleman, on learning that 
I was from America, appeared to be much interested, enquir- 
ing about " that wonderful country." He said to me - 
"I suppose you are well acquainted with my brother ?" 
" Your brother, sir; what is his name, and where does he 
reside ?" said I. 

" Ah ! his name is John Kevins, and I think he lives at 
Swan Paver." 

" Swan River," said I, "why that is in New Holland." 
" Ah ! indeed ; I thought it was in America." 
My Irish companion left us at Coventry, and I was really 
sorry to lose him. By the way, I must say a word about 
this ancient town. Everybody has probably heard of " Peep- 
ing Tom," of Coventry. Leofrice, Earl of Mercia, who 
was Lord of the place about 1040, is said to have loaded 
the inhabitants with heavy taxes, on account of some prov- 
ocation he had received from them ; and being importuned 
by his lady, Godivia, to remit them, he consented, upon con- 
dition that she would ride in a state of nudity through the 
town, which condition she accepted and performed. For being 
possessed of a long flowing head of hair, she contrived to 
dispose of her tresses so as to preserve her decency ; and 
at the same time, enjoined the citizens on pain of death, not 
to look out as she passed. The curiosity of a poor tailor, 
however, prevailed over his fears, and he ventured to take 
a single peep, but was struck blind, and was ever after called 
Peeping Tom. This improbable story is annually commem- 
orated by the citizens of Coventry, with great splendor, and 
a female, closely habited in fine linen of flesh color, rides 
through the town, attended by a very numerous and elegant 
procession. The window through which the tailor is said 
to have gratified his curiosity, is still shown, with his ef- 
figy, always newly dressed for the procession, which is on the 
Friday preceding Trinity Sunday. 

While passing through Weeden, I requested the guard to 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 377 

give us Yankee Doodle, on his bugle. Here, is a large en- 
campment of regular English soldiers, and as soon as the 
buo*le notes echoed through the tents, such a- scampering! 
The whole place was in commotion ; and one pretty little girl 
who was seated near me, was so incensed at the " Yanke 
National Air," that she put a finger in each ear, determined 
that such a vile tune should never penetrate her royal head. 
We entered London through Highgate, and according to the 
admonition of my Richmond friend, when our coach pulled 
up at the Bull-and-Mouth, Hyde-Park, I called a cab, direct- 
ing the driver to take me to the Saracen-Head, Snowhill, 
Skinner street. I rattled it off so handily that coachee took 
me for an old Londoner: I entered the hotel with as much 
assurance as though I had been born on the spot. Notwith- 
standing my caution, they soon ascertained that I was not 
an Englishman, in consequence of which, they paid me every 
attention the house afforded. 

Before leaving Boston, I was furnished with introductory 
letters to several families in England, with whose relatives I 
was well acquainted, and among whom was a lady whose 
brothers and three sisters lived in London. Accordingly in 
a few days I set about hunting up my new acquaintances. 
My first letter was to a gentleman whose place of business 
was in the Strand. I called there, but as he was not in, left 
my card with the letter, and went home, it being near my 
dinino" hour. 

Just after dining, and while sitting in my room, the bar- 
maid called to me, saying, that there was a gentleman below 
that wished to see me. 1 came down and found it was Mr. 
Herford, the gentleman at whose store I had called in the 
forenoon. 

He seemed somewhat embarrassed, observing " he regret- 
ted not being at his hoffioe when I called ; saying at the 
same time, " that his two sisters were in town, and if I had 
no objection, would direct a note to them with my address, 
and that they would in all probability call upon me on their 
way home." 

Accordingly I remained in my room, finishing up some 
letters, when, at about five P. M., was again called, and in- 



378 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

formed that there were two ladies in the parlor, who wished 
to see me ; and on entering, perceived two very pretty young 
girls, neither of whom was far from twenty years of age. 
After making my bow, and speaking to them, the one whom 
I took for the eldest commenced a tittering: lauo-h, which in- 
creased so fast that she was not able to speak, and holding 
a handkerchief to her face, began in an inchorent manner to 
apologize for her rudeness, saying : 

" I hope you will excuse me sir." (tittering again,) " I 
don't know what you will think of us, sir. While we were on 
our way here, Maria and I were wondering how we should 
make ourselves understood by you, having no idea that you 
spoke English, and then, we thought you were very dark, 
with long black hair, and when we saw you, were quite 
amazed, that you so much resembled an Englishman, and 
spoke the language so well." 

" Why ? did not your brother tell you that I was not an 
Indian?" 

" Oh ; we have not seen brother. He merely wrote a note 
telling us where you were." 

" But did not Mrs. Staniford ever inform you in her letters, 
that the people in America, were like the English both in 
appearance and language ? " 

" No sir, she never said anything in particular about the 
people, but sent us a book containing an account of the 
dreadful cruelties practised by them towards the English, 
and the book is full of their likenesses." 

On explanation, I found this description of Americans 
was a book on the Indian wars, and full of Indian portraits. 
And, after having a good laugh over our meeting, the girls 
arose to leave, expressing themselves highly delighted at 
seeing me, and hinting that it would be very agreeable to 
them if I would accompany them home. Their place of res- 
idence was on the Surry side, just over Blackfriar's bridge, 
at Camperdown Cottage. They resided with their elder sis- 
ter, to whom I was introduced. W r e took tea in the garden, 
under the shade of a venerable oak, and in the evening were 
joined by the brother. On my return over the bridge, the 
young ladies insisted on waiting upon me, a short distance, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 379 

which certainly was quite agreeable. Mr. Herford was very 
attentive, offering his services to accompany me any-where 1 

wished to go. 

Accordino-ly, one morning, we started soon after breakfast 
for a walk,° stopping first at Deptford, and after looking 
round the dock-yard a while, went on to Greenwich. Here 
we saw the jolly, old jack tar pensioners. And it is truly 
amusing to hear these old salts talk over their slang, and 
how nicely they will beg a sixpence from you. Here are 
many of the old Trafalgar's, the Nile's, and Copenhagen's ; 
and just mention the name of Nelson, and you will soon 
have a crowd around you, some with one arm, another with 
a timber toe, and there's a poor fellow drawn about in a 
cart, having lost both legs. 

These fellows are all fat and hearty, singing away mer- 
rily. They wear cocked hats, blue coats, and large shoe- 
buckles. When a fellow gets a little too much beer on board, 
he cock-bill's his old three cornered hat, and begins, perhaps, 
with the middle verse of some favorite song, but always 
gives you the chorus. 

It is very singular, that every one happened to be right 
along-side the old boy (Nelson,) when he was shot by the 
Spanish soger-built-lubber, from the Santisma's maintop. 

" My eyes, Bill, didn't he get it? Why sir, there ivasnH as 
much left of that ere fellow, as would feed a kitten." 

"Aye, a brave soul was Nelson, and them ere swabs, he 
used to wear, is changed into wings, and he's flying about 
Heaven like a Mother Cary's Chicken." 



CHAPTER XIX. 

Story of Greenwich pensioners,— Go to Woolwich,— Its description,— 

Return to London,— Remarks on seeing London,— My stopping 
place,— A description,— St. Sepulchre Church bells,— Execution of 
felons,— British Museum,— House of Lords and Commons,— Meaning 
of the Woolsack,— Westminster Abbey,— Thames Tunnel,— Tower,— 
William IV. proclaimed king,— Guests,— Loyalty of citizens,— Visit to 
neighboring towns,— Windsor,— Windsor Park,— Eton College,— 
Caricature shop,— Indecent pictures,— Excuse of the printer,— It may- 
do in England,— Horse drinks porter,— Return to London through 
Hounslow Heath —Visit St Thomas' Hospital,— King's bench prison,— 
Description,— Attend church at City road Chapel,— Bunhill fields 
burying ground,— Smithfield,— Account of Joe Bragg,— Go to Stafford- 
shire,— Potteries,— Dainty Irishman,— Went to Burslem,— Letter to 
Mr. Ridgeway— Go through the potteries,— Description of the making 
of China° ware,— Remarks,— Visits to the Foudrenier Paper Mills, — 
Objection to receive strangers, — Positive Assurance that I had no 
knowledge of paper making,— Admittance, — Astonishment,— Leave 
Staffordshire,— Presented with some Staffordshire ware,— Return to 
Liverpool,— Informed of a Boston captain,— Meet him,— His story,— 
Urge him to abandon his habits of drinking,— Go to Northumberland 
and to Newcastle,— Apprise my friends at Newcastle of my intention 
of visiting them,— Arrival at Newcastle,— Visit anticipated,— Happy 
meeting,— Convivial party,— Conversation with an old gentleman,— 
Explosion of the coal mines,— Sail for Leith,— Arrival,— Go to Edin- 
burg, — Fish women,— An old Boston Merchant —Visit to Holy- 
rood house, — Its description, — Long missing regalia of Scotland, — 
Edinburg Castle,— Edinburg,— Go to Glasgow,— Arrive. 

" What ship was that man on board of in the wagon 
there, with both legs off '?" 

" Your honor, that's old Tom Harvey. He lost his pin3 
aboard the Leviathan, when she cut her way through the 
Dardanelles. Here, boy, back your cart off this way, these 
gentlemen would like a bit of a yarn from old Tom. You 



382 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

see, sir, the Admiralty pays that ere youngster for dragging 
old Tom about." 

We just stepped a few paces ahead, and had a short chat 
with the old fellow. He was quarter gunner on board the 
Leviathan, and lost both legs by a splinter, knocked from a 
gun carriage by a marble shot, weighing over two hundred 
pounds. He was a jovial old fellow, nearly sixty years of 
age, and cheerful as a lark. One fellow among the group, 
took a pride in exhibiting his Sunday leg ; he had whittled 
it out himself, from a splinter of the Victory's mainmast. 
He had his leg shot off in the action at Trafalgar, with 
Kelson, and when laying on the table in the cockpit, ready 
for amputation, the doctor being all ready with his saw and 
knife, Bill raises himself up a bit, and after taking a fresh 
quid, says, " please, sir, before you cut off the old stump, 
just promise me one thing." " Well, what is it, my man ?" 
** Why, that you will save me a piece of the old mast, for a 
Sunday leg." The doctor promised he would, and fulfilled 
his promise. These good-hearted fellows would have amused 
us a week. We made them a small present, and went on 
towards Woolwich, the most ancient military and naval 
arsenal in England, and has a royal dock-yard, where men- 
of-war were built as early as in the reign of Henry VIII. 
At the eastern part of the town, is the royal arsenal, in 
which are built magazines of great guns, mortars, bombs, 
balls, powder, and other warlike stores, a foundry, with three 
fnrnaces, for casting ordnance, and a laboratory, where fire- 
works and cartridges are made, and bombs, carcasses, gre- 
nades, &c, charged for the public service. 

Woolwich is seated on the Thames, which is so deep here 
that large ships may at all times ride with safety. It is about 
eight miles from London. As it was now late in the afternoon, 
feeling somewhat fatigued, I concluded not to go any 
further, but to return to London in the omnibus. The day 
was unusually fine, and we really had a firstrate time, ar- 
riving home in season for tea, and to spend the evening with 
the girls. In order to see London properly, one must go 
leizurely to work, provide himself with the latest hand- 
book, lay out his day's work every morning, and avoid as 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 383 

much as possible being troublesome to friends ; for, never 
mind how much of a stranger you are, anything in London 
is new to you, and by attending closely to your guide-book, 
and keeping a sharp lookout for pickpockets, any one can 
go through London with perfect safety. 

My stopping place, as I have previously observed, was 
situated on Snow-hill, close along-side of St. Sepulchre 
Church, and very near the old Bailey or New-gate, and not 
a great distance from the stake at Smithfield, where John 
Eogers was burnt, or rather the place designated as such. 
The deep-toned bell of St. Sepulchre has been noted many 
years for its gloomy and melancholy tones, doling away the 
last few hours of the miserable felon, soon to expiate his 
crime upon the drop, in front of that dismal prison. It may 
have been for stealing five shillings, or for killing a fellow 
creature in cold blood — the stern law knowing no medium. 
So the Saracen head is the centre of my every-day's radii. 

My first visit was to the British Museum, where, as the 
boy said, " jT saw everything." This unequalled museum is 
accessible to all, on certain days ; and to pass well through 
it, requires a week. I next visited the House of Lords and 
House of Commons, and understood for the first time, the 
meaning of the wool-sack, which was, to let every Englishman 
know that wool was the life of England. Then to West- 
minster Abbey, which edifice I shall not attempt to describe, 
because a much more accurate description than I can give, 
may be found in many of the library books. Next in order 
was the Thames Tunnel, which had recently been inun- 
dated, and was hardly dry yet; it was not sufficiently 
finished to make it an object of much interest. I then 
proceeded to the tower, and was conducted through it by 
one of the yeoman of the guard. I shall all also omit 
a description here, for the same reason assigned for the Ab- 
bey ; and will merely say, that all the localities of any in- 
terest were visited, together with the imposing ceremony of 
publicly proclaiming William Fourth, King of England, 
which took place in St. James' Park, amidst an innumer- 
able assemblage. There were present as guests, the Duke 
of Wellington, Prince Frederick of Prussia, and many other 



384 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

noble personages, whose names I did not ascertain. The day 
was remarkably fine, and everything attending the ceremony 
passed off in fine style. 

As the new kino* was riding through the streets in his 
open carriage, he was obliged to stop, occasionally, in conse- 
quence of the density of the crowd ; when the people would 
then rush towards the carriage, to kiss his Majesty's hand. 
Among the loyal devotees were many women, and when they 
approached the king, he would say, " My hand for gentle- 
men, but my cheek for the ladies/' and suiting the action to 
the word, held his cheek towards thein. 

Having travelled nearly over London proper, I commenced 
visiting the neighboring towns and villages ; first, taking 
the pleasure steamer for Eichmond, visiting Eichmond Hill, 
which commands an enchanting prospect over a large por- 
tion of the country ; then to Windsor. The castle was in 
mourning for the late king, and had rather a sombre appear- 
ance ; the Hatchment, or achievement, still suspended from the 
front window, facing Windsor Park. This Park, in front of the 
palace, is lined on each side with some of the most magnificent 
oaks and elms, in the world. Near the castle is Eton College ; 
I was much pleased with these bright, intelligent scholars. 
Their play-ground joins the palace grounds. 1 was told that 
George IV. frequently played with them when a boy. 

Near the palace yard gate, and directly opposite the pal- 
ace windows, was a caricature print-shop ; the windows were 
filled with all sorts of prints, some of them, I thought, quite 
indecent ; they all had some caricature reference to George 
IV. and his ladies. I went into the shop to take a survey, 
and to purchase ; and asked the old man who kept the es- 
tablishment, how it was that he could exhibit these pictures 
right in the face and eyes of the royal household. " Why," 
answered the man, with some animation, " I get my living 
by selling prints ; if any man in the kingdom, whether a 
king or a beggar, can come into my shop, and put his finger 
on any picture, and say, ' That is me ! ' then I shall say 
that I am very glad to have been so fortunate as to obtain 
such a correct likeness." 

The old man's logic was probably sufficient to save him 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 385 

in England, but in no other European country would such 
bare-faced caricaturing have been tolerated. 

While dining at the hotel, a gentleman came in who or- 
dered the waiter to give his horse a can of porter. At first, 
I thought it was a joke, but sure enough, the horse drank 
every drop of it, and then wanted more. I had a mind to 

recommend the horse to visit Mr. S 's brewery, at St. 

Helens. 

I left Windsor next morning in the coach, passing over 
Hounslow Heath, through Chelsea and Kensington gardens ; 
on the same afternoon had an invitation from a gentleman 
to accompany him on a visit to St. Thomas' hospital, and 
to the King's Bench prison, both of which were on the Surry 
side. The prison is chiefly devoted to rich debtors, " who 
won't pay." We passed through the whole range of the 
prison grounds, and the yard appeared to be one vast mar- 
ket ; and one not knowing that he was in a prison yard, 
would imagine himself in some popular city market ; here 
were stalls all round the inside of the walls, loaded with 
every species of game, biped and quadruped. The gentlemen 
prisoners, with their servants, purchasing whatever their 
palates desired ; for they can live here as high or extrava- 
gant as they please, although no spirituous liquors are al- 
lowed to be sold on the limits. All along on the side op- 
posite the stalls, are numerous little shops, where small ar- 
ticles are sold, such as stationery, cakes, wearing apparel, 
and many other necessaries needed by the prisoners, some 
of whom remain there during their lives. But my com- 
panion directed my attention to some shops, over the doors 
of which the signs read "Thread an tape." "Here," said 
he, " these gentleman can obtain anything they want." 

The King's Bench prisoners are, many of them, noblemen, 
who prefer lying in prison to paying their debts ; their ob- 
ject in so doing being best known to themselves. 

In passing out of the prison yard into the office of admit- 
tance, your attention is directed by the keepers to a singular 
piece of wood, about twelve inches square, always exciting 
curiosity, and it is hung up over the grate ; on it is written 
in large letters : 
Y 



386 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" Turn iliis round and you ivill see " 

The greeny then turns it round, and on the reverse — 

" Pay for a quart and youlll be free." 

So all you have to do is to hand over a couple of shillings to 
pay for the quart, and you can then go out. 

Next day being Sunday, I attended church at the City 
Road Chapel, where Rev. John Wesley formerly preached ; 
and heard an excellent sermon from the Rev. John Watson, 
a very celebrated Methodist preacher. After service took a 
walk through Bun hill-fields burying ground, was shown the 
graves of Watts, Bunyan, and of many others, " who, being 
dead, yet speakeili ; " then proceeded to the place said to be 
where the stake was erected for the burning of John Rog;- 
ers at Smitlifield. 

[I mentioned in a former chapter about the crew of the In- 
diaman, that many of them were subsequently ship-mas- 
ters. Joe Bragg, afterwards sailed out of England, and in 
London the following appeared on the police record.] 



ALLEGED MURDER ON THE HIGH SEAS. 

Joseph Bragg, master of the brig Valiant, lying in the 
East India Docks, was on Tuesday, April 11, 1827, examined 
at the Thames Police Office, charged with the murder of 
Francis Williams* a black man, the cook. Several of the 
crew were examined ; but as their evidence was corrobora- 
tive of each other, we shall only give the evidence of Rob- 
ert Harris, who stated, that he was a seaman on board the 
Valiant, and that during their passage to the Isle of France, 
the prisoner was in the habit of kicking the deceased, and 
knocking him on the head ; and on the 16th of September the 
prisoner asked where the black rascal was. He was told that 
he was aft. Prisoner then went aft, and saw the deceased 
with a bone of beef in his hand. He desired him to go to 
the round-house, and told him to eat the bone. Deceased 
made no reply. Prisoner began to cut his clothes off, leav- 
ing only his frock shirt. He then fastened a rope round his 
body, and dragged him to the hatchway, aud threw him down 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 387 

upon some barrels. The deceased lay some time insensible. 
The prisoner then ordered him on deck, which, he not imme- 
diately complying with, he hauled him up. Deceased beg- 
ged a drink of water. Prisoner called the cook of the day, 
ordered him to get a panican of beef pickle, and actually 
forced a large quantity of it down the deceased's throat ; and 
on his attempting to resist, he dashed him against the boom, 
and struck him several times ; deceased fell on the deck ; he 
then dragged him towards the head of the ship. Prisoner 
then told the deceased to take a bucket and fasten the bot- 
tom of it: but he seemed quite unable to do it. Prisoner 
then snatched up a hammer, struck the deceased on the head 
and knocked him down the hatchway ; deceased fell on the 
barrels, and groaned dreadfully. Prisoner then said, " Oh ! the 
black rascal, I'll take the sulks out of him." Prisoner then cal- 
led the deceased to come on deck, but he was unable ; he then 
went and struck him. Deceased fell, and prisoner took a 
shovel and began to cover him with the ballast, as if in the act 
of burying him alive. When he had nearly covered him, 
he flattened the ballast on his chest. He subsequently took 
the ballast off, called for a rope, made it fast to the leg of the 
deceased, and dragged him forward. He then called out to 
the people to haul away, which they did ; but on perceiving 
it was the deceased they were hauling, they refused. The 
prisoner, with one of the crew, hauled the deceased on deck. 
Deceased was quite unable to stand, and his head lay upon 
his shoulder. He inarticulately begged a drink of water. 
Prisoner replied, " Fetch him a panican of pickle." It was 
brought and he put it into deceased's hand, who endeavored 
to put it to his lips, but was unable, and let it fall upon 
the deck : deceased also fell down ; prisoner said, " You 
sulky rascal, I'll make you stand up ; " and he desired Bill 
Cassan to put the poker into the fire ; Cassan refused ; pris- 
oner did it himself ; all this time the deceased lay insensi- 
ble. When the poker was red-hot, he applied it to the back 
of. the deceased, and deceased shrunk a little. Witness saw 
the steam come from the burning back of the deceased ! Pris- 
oner then hauled deceased on his feet, swearing he would 
take the sulks out of him ; a rope was then made fast to the 



388 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

deceased, and he was slewed overboard ; lie was hauled up 
on the larboard side ; while he was hauling up, one of the 
iron hooks struck him on the throat, and lacerated it dread- 
fully ; he then lay on the deck groaning. Some of them 
said, the best thing was to put the man down below ; prisoner 
replied, " Let him lie there — the rascal ; I'll take the sulks 
out of him before I have done with him ; n he lay there until 
the evening. Prisoner then told the mate to put him down 
below, and he was lowered down and placed on the water 
casks ; there was then very little appearance of Jife in him, 
and he groaned occasionally ; they then put him into his 
hammock, placed him upon his back, and found him dead on 
the following morning in that position. The prisoner said, 
he never knew a black man to die of the sulks before. The 
body was laid out on deck. Prisoner desired that it should 
be sewed up in his hammock, and heaved overboard, at the- 
same time ordering the mate to give the crew half a tumbler 
of rum each. This was the first spirits they had ever got 
from the prisoner. While they were drinking, the prisoner 
asked them if they saw any marks on the body. Ko .an- 
swer was given, apprehensive they should be served so them- 
selves. The body was then sewed up in a hammock, a bag 
of sand put in with it, and it was hove overboard. The crew 
were then called into the cabin, and prisoner asked them if 
they would sign a paper, certifying that the deceased died 
by the will of God. They refused. Prisoner then asked if 
they would sign — " Accidental death ?" They did so, but- 
through fear. When the vessel arrived at Port Louis, pris- 
oner employed an attorney, and he asked the crew to swear 
that the deceased died in his hammock ; and on the crew go- 
ing to explain to him, the attorney replied, that he did not 
wish to hear any thing about the matter — all he wanted was 
for them to swear that the deceased died in his hammock, 
which they did. The prisoner was then remanded for further 
examination. 

Monday morning, took the coach for Staffordshire, as I 
had letters to one of the most extensive pottery proprietors 
in the shire. I left the coach at the Red Lion, at Hanley, 
preferring to walk to Burslem, the town at which I intended 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 389 

to stop. Here I had one of those delicious mutton-chops, 
such as cannot be found any-where else in the world ; and 
while thus enjoying my repast, an Irish laborer came in to 
beg something to eat. The kind landlady cut off a good 
sized piece of Cheshire cheese and a large piece of bread to 
match which she gave him. The fellow took it, and crossing 
over to the other side of the road, threw it over the hedge. 
The old lady happened to see it ; she ran over, and clenching 
him by the collar, made him pick it up and carry it over to 
the house again. His excuse for throwing it away, was, 

" An sure it was 'nt bread and cheese hungry that I was." 

The good landlady was a powerful English woman ; she 
gave him a pelt in the back of the neck, and with her foot 
helped him out of the door. 

I walked over to Burslem and found Mr. E , and if 

there is a place in the world where you find true and disin- 
terested hospitality, it is with the English. As soon as Mr. 
R had ascertained from my letter who I was, he con- 
ducted me to his mansion. Mrs. R , and in fact the 

whole family, were determined to make me happy. I was 
conducted through the potteries, and each process for making 
the beautiful china and other wares, was explained to me, 
commencing with the calcination of the flint and bones, all 
through to the ornamental painting on the beautiful tea sets, 
which is done principally by young ladies, and I am sure 
that a visit to the Potteries is worth a journey to England. 
Here you see a bright-eyed little fellow at the bench, and in 
an apparently careless manner, with a grin on his dirty 
face, catches up a ball of clay, puts it on the horizontal wheel 
which he turns with his toes, and in the most dexterous man- 
ner, with a little flat stick and his nimble fingers, turns out a 
pretty cream pitcher or a sugar bowl, as the saying is, " in no 
time." I thought of that passage in the Scripture, "behold 
we are the clay and thou art the potter." God moulds us 
into any shape he pleases ; then we must pass through the 
furnace, and if we come out from that ordeal unbroken, he 
then in infinite goodness, puts on the enamel, and we are 
fit for the master's use. 

Mr. R took me over to see Mr. Foudrenier's paper- 



390 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

mills, the largest in the world. No persons are admitted, 
however, without special permission. We went up to the large 
gate, in which there is a hole about six inches in diameter, 
and through this aperture all conversation is held with those 

inside. Mr. R enquired for Mr. F., and after a few 

minutes he came to the hole. Mr. R observed that he 

had with him a friend from America, and to whom he wished 
to show the paper-mill. Mr. F. at first very politely object- 
ed, saying that he had suffered much by the introduction of 
strangers, but after a little parleying, the door was opened, 
and I was admitted. As soon as I was inside the gate, and 
before entering the mill, Mr. F. asked me in a very serious 
manner, if I had any knowledge of paper making. I as- 
sured him that I had no further knowledge than that which 
I had gained from the encyclopedia, and my object for wish- 
ing to see this establishment was, that I had heard much of 
his powerful steam-engine, and the surprising rapidity with 
which paper was made. He then told me why he was so 
cautious. That not many months ago, two gentlemen travel- 
lers from the United States, had obtained an introduction 
into the mills, pretending great ignorance about paper mak- 
ing, when it subsequently turned out that these gentlemen 
were paper makers, located near Philadelphia, and that they 
while looking round, had stolen some of his plans, and intro- 
duced them into their own establishment. 

In passing tli rough the spacious ware rooms of the potter- 
ies, I noticed a beautiful pattern of plates very much resem- 
bling china. I remarked to Mr. R that I had never 

seen anything of the earthernware kind, that so nearly re- 
sembled china. On the morning of my departure from B., I 
found a box with my name upon it, placed near my carpet- 
bag, and ascertained that I had been presented with four 
dozen of these plates, with the compliments of the donor. 

From Staffordshire, I returned to Liverpool. Next morn- 
ing at the breakfast table, I was told that there was a Boston 
brig lying at the Salt house dock, and on hearing the cap- 
tain's name, recognized him as an old friend. After break- 
fast I went up to the dock, and there he was, standing up 
against the dock house, so drunk that ho could not move. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 391 

As soon as he recognized me lie gave a dreadful exclamation 
of surprise, and began to weep like a child ; saying that he 
was ruined, had made a bad voyage, and that his owners 
would kick him out of their employment, He begged me 
not to mention what I saw. I took him by the hand and 
assured him that I would not, and urged him to cheer up, 
and by no means to resort to drinking as a palliative against 
trouble. "If you have done your duty, and the voyage is ad- 
verse, the fault is not yours." I also urged him to shift his 
dress, to come down to our house and make himself cheerful. 
I believe he got a good freight from Liverpool, and on his 
arrival home everything went off iirstrate. I saw him in 
Boston many times afterwards, but we never exchanged a 
word about Liverpool, and there was not in Boston a hand- 
somer formed man, nor one more highly respected than Capt. 

. His owners esteemed him highly, and 1 have never 

divulged his secret. 

Mv next move was from Liverpool to Newcastle-on-Tyne, 
passing through York and Durham, into Northumberland. 
I had Tetters to a family residing in Newcastle, and when in 
London I wrote to them that I sliould soon be on my way to 
the North. From Liverpool to York, I had a very pleasant 
companion in the person of a young Quaker. He was very 
communicative and intelligent, and gave me much valuable 
information about England, and was also very inquisitive in 
his enquiries about the United States and its government. I 
was quite sorry to part with him. 

On my arrival at Newcastle, I saw a gentleman standing 
at the coach door, enquiring of each passenger his name. I 
concluded that this was the gentleman in search of me ; 
so, when I got out, said I : 

" Is your name Rutherford ? " 

" Yes, sir." 

" All right ; go ahead." 

He knew in a minute that I was the man. We were 
quickly at his house ; and as it was his wife with whom I 
had been acquainted in Boston, our meeting was rather a 
cordial one. That night, a party was got up, and we had a 
tall time ; and according to English fashion, did not separate 



392 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

until daylight ; all appeared social and happy. One of the 
gentlemen showed me round Newcastle, which at this time 
was wrapped in gloom, in consequence of a dreadful accident 
which had occurred only a few days before. An explosion 
had taken place in a coal mine, near by, by which 129 lives 
were lost, and many others maimed, some of them for life. 

In walking one day, I was introduced to an old gentleman, 
w r ho, as we passed along the street, pointed to a row of build- 
ings which once belonged to him, but were now the property 
of another. He stopped short, and taking my hand, ob- 
served : 

" Now 1 am poor, and a poor gentleman is the most 
useless being in creation ; he is of no use to himself, or to 
any one else." 

I did not exactlv accord with him there ; for, notwithstand- 
ing his remark might apply in many eases, yet it was not 
generally true, as the future usefulness of a man bereft of 
his property, very much depends upon circumstances. I 
parted with my good friends in Newcastle, and took passage 

in the Steamer for Leith ; there were several cabin and a 

number of steerage passengers. We left Newcastle early 
in the morning, passing Shields and Sunderland. After we 
had left the Tyne, a gale sprung up, which continued with 
much violence, until we reached the Frith of Forth. 

On arriving at Leith, next morning, I went ashore and 
looked around among the shipping. Here were female steve- 
dores, with canvas petticoats, and a large canvas jacket over 
all, rolling casks on board the ships, and lowering them into 
the hold as handily as any men that I had ever seen. And 
it was amusing to see the long string of Scotch fisherwomen, 
with their broad backs, and a two bushel basket of fish on 
their shoulders, all dripping down over their leather jackets, 
going up the Leith road to Edinburgh ; the distance is 
one mile. On the way, there is a large gin palace, where 
they stop to get a nipper, and woe be to any man who says 
an insulting word to them ; they would all drop their baskets, 
and pommel him so that he could hardly walk. As this has 
happened several times, every one gives them a wide l>erth. 

I had an introductory letter to a gentleman, who was an 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 393 

extensive book publisher. He very kindly left bis business, 
and devoted himself entirely to me while I remained in 
Edinburgh. I stopped at the Prince hotel, Prince street. At 
the dinner table I recognized an old Boston merchant, who 
formerly kept on India wharf; he sat opposite, and repeat- 
edly urged me to take a glass of wine, which former expe- 
rience induced me to decline. I soon found that nearly all 
at the table were a set of blow-hards, and my old friend was 
not a whit behind them. 

According to Scotch etiquette, it is indecorous to leave the 
table before all have finished. I remained until they had 
drank wine, Scotch ale, porter, and had called for brandy. 
I then arose, went to my room, which was directly oyer the 
porch, and set there awhile, waiting for my Scotch friend to 
call for me. I heard them arise from the table, and saw my 
old Boston friend leave the room, hardly able to stand up- 
right ; he staggered through the alley, and went into the 
street. I saw no more of him after that day. 

My first visit in Edinburgh was to Holyrood house, once 
the residence of Mary, Queen of Scots, the keeper of the 
place, an old lady, conducted me through all the rooms. 
Mary's sleeping-room, with the bed and oaken bedstead, re- 
mained as she left them ; also, her work-table, work-basket, 
with needles, thread, and many et ceteras belonging to a 
lady's sewing establishment. We were shown the chamber 
where Rizzio was killed, while playing by her side, her fa- 
vorite air on the guitar. Lord Darnley's boots and many 
household articles, were not allowed to be touched. The 
rooms, particularly the suite appropriated to her own use, 
were richly hung with French tapestry ; but I was told that 
the oaken floors were never carpeted. 

I was next shown into the chapel, which is without a roof; 
the floor is covered with weeds and grass ; much of the stone 
work retains features of former grandeur. The vault where 
the remains of the Scottish Kings are deposited, which con- 
sists of white marble, is now in a state of decay. 

Prom the top of the hill called Arthur's seat, there is a 
magnificent and expansive view of the city, and far beyond, 
showing some beautiful scenery. There is also a fine view 



394 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



from Calton hill, and in fact, Edinburgh has a beautiful ap- 
pearance when viewed from an elevated position. 

My next visit was to the Castle ; here I saw the newly dis- 
covered and long-lost Regalia of Scotland, once belonging to 
Robert Bruce, King of Scotland. The sceptres are silver 
gilt, and headed with a crystal globe ; the crown is small 
and inelegant, set round with emeralds, rubies, topazes, and 
pearls. The Castle itself is a congeries of very rude, ill- 
planned buildings, and has no security but from its walls, 
and naturally strong situation. 

On the whole, I was highly gratified with the beauty and 
situation of Edinburgh ; yet it is only in reference to its ex- 
ternal appearance, that the mind is fully satisfied. When 
you look into the houses, the shops, the streets, either for 
their furniture, their merchandise, or even for persons, or 
equipage suitable to the grandeur of the buildings, you are 
utterly disappointed. Everything appears out of proportion 
with these majestic edifices, and must either be passed by 
unheeded, or if noticed at all, must be with dissatisfaction. 
After seeing all the sights in Edinburgh, I took leave of my 
kind friend, and proceeded to Glasgow, which is also a beau- 
tiful city, and not exceeded by any in Europe. 



CHAPTEE XX. 

Glasgow,— Its description,— Go to Greenock,— Heavy gale,— Perilous 
condition,— Frantic girl,— I had my fears,— Meet an old acquaintance,— 
Difficulty in rinding my goods,— Disclosure of an imprudent captain,— 
Get ready for sailing,— Meet an old companion, — Traitor, — Mr. Tialo, 

His history, — Falling out with my old acquaintance, — Incident on 

the passage, — Arrive home. 

The four principal streets which intersect each other, at 
right angles, divide the city into nearly four equal parts. 
The high church is a magnificent Gothic structure. There 
are several splendid churches and other edifices, not sur- 
passed by any in Europe. The city is situated on the north 
bank of the Clyde; the suburbs extending to the opposite 
side, connected by three elegant stone bridges. _ Although 
introduced by letter to this magnificent city, I did not call 
upon any one, but rambled about with no other companion 
than my guide-book. After seeing all that was desirable in 
Glasgow, I took the steamer for Greenock, and as there was 
nothing very attractive to me there, excepting the Dry-docks, 
I left in the next steamer for Liverpool. It was late in the 
afternoon when we started. After entering the Frith, it came 
on to blow hard from the north-east. We were now fast 
drifting on to the coast of Ireland. When between Donagh- 
adee and Port Patrick, the gale was terrific. It was quite 
dark, our coals were nearly expended, and we were quite near 
the rocks on the coast of Ireland. I stood most of the time 
near the captain, and putting his hand on my shoulder, 
"now," said he, "if the engine holds out, we shall get by; 
but if a screw gives way, or anything stops the engine, we 
are gone. We can break up the chairs, tables, and any of 
the wood-work about the ship if the coal gives out : but my 
only fear is, that the engine will not last. The passengers 
were much alarmed, but by good management, most of them 



Q 



96 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



were kept below. There was a girl about twenty yearg of 
age, who got upon deck, and seeing the state of things, be- 
came frantic. She clenched hold of me, saying : 

11 Oh, dear ! dear ! what shall I do ? I have something on 
my mind that I wish to confess before I die. Oh, mercy ! 
Oh, mercy ! " 

With some trouble I got her below, and shut the cabin 
door ; so that if we went on the rocks, they might as well 
die there, as any- where else, for death would be inevitable, 
and to tell the truth, I was not without my fears. Here we 
were, close on to the rocks, in a small steamer, with rather 
an equivocal engine, a furious gale and a heavy sea. As the 
captain said, if the engine stops for a minute, we are gone. 
If it had been so, my fate would not have been known, for 
no soul except those on board, knew where I was. My friends 
s$ Newcastle knew that I had gone to Leith, and that was 
the extent of their knowledge of my whereabouts. When 
in London, I had purchased about one thousand dollars worth 
of goods which were sent to Liverpool, subject to my order; 
these would have been lost to my family. But an over- 
ruling and kind Providence had ordered it otherwise and we 
were saved ; the wind shifted a few points, which very 
much abated the danger. By daylight we were under the 
lee of the Isle of Man, and scraped up fuel enough to carry 
us into Liverpool. And when once on terra firina, again, I 
assure you I felt glad. I fell in with an old acquaintance, 
captain of a ship bound for Boston and to sail in two days ; 
he invited me to take passage with him, which invitation I 
accepted. 

My first business was to see about my goods, so I went to 
the Canal office with my number and description. The clerk 
looked over the list of names; I had given him my name 
which began with II. Now as the English seldom sound the 
H, he looked among the O's, and after running the list over 
carefully, he says : 

"There are no goods here for you. " 

" Well, how can that be 1 You have the goods on your 
freight list, aaid here is the ticket. " 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 397 

" Well, truly, this is mysterious ; there must be some mis- 
take; your goods must have been left at Manchester. " 

Now here was a fix ; my passage in this ship was vetoed. 
In the afternoon I called again, and almost the first things I 
saw in the freight room, were my goods. And when I told 
the clerk that my goods were there, he asked me again, what 
name ? I told him. I then saw him looking under the O's, 
and I reeled off a little bit of my mind to him. Said 
I, " what kind of a clerk are you? don't you know how to 
spell a name ? I told you Holbrook, and just look upon your 
ticket. 

" 0, I beg your pardon, I was looking for Olebrook. ' v 
' { Well, you had better go and learn English before you set 
yourself up for a clerk. " 

I spent the evening with several Yankee Captains. One 
of them who had a fine ship, began telling me how much it 
had cost him for frolicking money since he had been in the 
Liverpool trade ; it was an enormous sum. I replied : 

" How can you support your family 7 It must take all 
your wages and primage. " 

" 0, nonsense it don't cost me a cent. I get it out of veg- 
etables, ship chandlers and stevedores' bills. " 
" But don't your owners overhaul your bills ? " 
" No, they never look at my bills ; I just hand in my ac- 
count and that is all I ever hear about it. " 

I observed he had been drinking, so the old adage holds 
good, " When liquor is in, wit is out, " if it had not been so, 
he would never have exposed himself in this manner, for he 
knew I was well acquainted with his owners. Next morning 

I had everything belonging to me on board the H T , 

Capt. B . There were two other passengers, one of 

whom I recognized as an old schoolmate and a near neighbor. 
His father was one of the tories who took no part in the rev- 
olutionary war, although he was born in Boston. He had 
escaped, by some means, the general fate of the tories found 
in Boston, after the conclusion of the war. They were carried 
out of the town in a charcoal cart, amid the hooting and pelt- 
ing of the boys, and forbid ever showing their heads in B. 
again. This aristocratic gentlemen managed to escape his just 



398 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

due, until the excitement was over. His family lived near 
our schoolhouse, and, although a boy, I could not help ob- 
serving what a proud, haughty fellow he was ; and the boys 
(this passenger and his brother) were too proud and haughty to 
associate with the others. And what was worse than all, they 
were poor, living entirely on the pension allowed them by the 
British government, which was also allowed to all who re- 
mained during the revolution. So I had some idea of the 
chap who was to be my companion for thirty-five or forty 
days. I had frequently met this man in Boston, and our 
recognition was hardly ever more than a slight nod. I had 
not seen him for many years before we met on board the 

H T . At the dinner table I spoke to him of our 

former acquaintance, but it was easy to see that the old, 
assumed loftiness, was still there ; however, as we were to be 
together for a weeks, I intended to pass the time as agreeably 
as I could. The other passenger, Mr. Tialo, was an Eng- 
lishman, and a very fine, sociable fellow. Very early on 
the voyage I observed that my Boston friend had a habit of 
speaking very sneeringly of everything that was American ; 
frequently alluding to the " Tavistock " as the most fashion- 
able hotel in London, and the place at which he had stopped, 
and then drawing the contrast between the society of Eng- 
land and that of the United States — passing very high en- 
comiums on the former, and heartily running the latter. I 
enquired where his elder brother was ? 

" He is in the army and stationed in India. " 
" O. then, he is not in the American army ? " 
" A-m-er-i-c an army ? No, indeed, I hope not ! " 
I received all this without showing any symptoms of un- 
easiness, reserving it until another time. In the course of 
conversation he told me that he had been to England to re- 
ccive his father's pension, which amounted to four thousand 
dollars, which he had in Spanish dollars, in the box in his 
state-rOom. 

Mr. Tialo was much afflicted with the rheumatism, which 
he acknowledged was brought on by excessive drinking. He 
1 '"longed in Nottingham, was an extensive dealer in lace, 
and very wealthy. He managed to get his goods into the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 399 

United States by smuggling, and was now on his way to New 
Orleans to meet a quantity of lace which had been smuggled 
from St. John, N. B. ; he being very sociable and commu- 
nicative, I became quite attached to him. He gave me much 
information about England, and many amusing anecdotes 
about Lords and Noblemen with whom he had lived. He 
had risen from a poor servant boy to a gentleman of fortune, 
and one moonlight evening he gave me the following extract 
of his history : 

His parents were very poor ; he went to live in the family 
of a Lord somebody as under-scullion, which was to attend 
on the cooks, bring coal, and perform any duties that were 
required ; after a while he was promoted to a whipper-in ; 
that is, to see that the hounds were all in the kennel. He 
told me many amusing anecdotes about hounds, some of which 
quite surprised me. He said, that when a hound showed any 
disposition to fawn, or as we would say, to be docile, he was 
immediately killed, no matter how valuable he was, for as 
soon as there was any perceptible relaxation of his savage 
nature, he was useless. He next obtained a situation as chief 
butler to a nobleman, who was so eccentric in his habits that 
he allowed do one but his wife to see him. No other eye 
had seen him for eighteen years ; he made all his bargains 
and transacted all his business through a screen. He lived 
with this nobleman seven years, and as he had now nearly 
five hundred pounds in his possession, concluded to try some- 
thing on his own hook. 

There was at this time an auction sale of mattresses that 
had belonged to the English army ; after the Battle of Wa- 
terloo these beds were ordered to be sold. They were 
stuffed with wool ; he bought the lot, on which speculation 
he realized eight hundred pounds profit. 

He confessed that he was frequently intoxicated, and 
" now," said he, "the foundation of my fortune I attribute 
to a drunken freak. I had been drinking ail night with 
some friends, and was quite intoxicated when I left them. 
In the morning, on going home, passed a crowd of persons 
who were listening to an auctioneer. I stopped and bid some- 
thing over the last, when the auctioneer knocked it off to 



400 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

me, and asked my name. I was sober enough, however, to 
behave well, and to give my name and residence, not know- 
ing what I had bought ; and after reaching home and becom- 
ing cool enough to remember that I had purchased something 
at an auction, began to be alarmed, feeling certain that I 
had been cheated. " 

" While ruminating over what I supposed to be my folly, 
two gentlemen called upon me with a roll of papers as large 
round as my arm. I assure you I felt ashamed and consid- 
ered myself ruined. The gentlemen began to congratulate 
me on my good purchase, and I soon ascertained the nature 
of my bargain ; and the first payment took more than half of 
all that 1 owned. " 

As it was getting late we went below. He finished his 
story by saying that the purchase was a lot of land contain- 
ing about 22,000 feet, and I think he told me that he had 
paid one shilling sterling per foot, and that he had sold one 
small lot for ten shillings per foot ; the residue was now 
worth thirty — would soon bring a guinea ; and on the 
strength of this purchase, he had engaged in the lace busi- 
ness and had been very successful. But the poor fellow died 
in New Orleans, and that was the last of poor Tialo. 

One day the Boston gentleman was not at the dinner 
table in time to commence with us, so the captain sent the 
steward up to find him, when he came down, quite indignant 
that we should have began without him. I knew what 
was coming and felt glad that an opportunity would soon 
offer when I could give vent to my feelings. I asked him 
why he was offended ? " If you did not hear the bell it was 
not our fault ; we heard it and came down, and when we 
found that you did not come, the captain sent the steward for 
you, and as far as I am concerned, don't consider your con- 
duct or conversation has been such as to merit much atten- 
tion on board an American ship. Your remarks in many 
instances have been highly derogatory to the character of an 
American citizen. Remember, sir, that neither you or any 
of your family are Americans, although born in Boston. 
You have in that box the price of American blood : you have 
enjoyed all the benefits of a free country, while that box con- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 401 

tains the reward of a dastardly opposition, when our country 
was struggling for freedom ! I am a passenger with your- 
self, and know my position too well to make any trouble on 
board this ship ; but if ever we meet on shore, I may remind 
you of your sneering epithets during this passage. " 

We arrived in Boston, Oct. 4th, 1830, in thirty-eight days 
from Liverpool. On our passage, an accident occurred which 
resulted rather differently from what any one would suppose. 
Two men went aloft to send down the main-royal yard, as it 
looked very much like a blow, and the captain wished to have 
everything snug before night. The men had just got upon 
the yard when the ship gave a heavy roll and away went the 
royal-mast, yard and all, and the two men came tumbling 
down ; one went overboard clear of everything, and the 
other came down head foremost through the mainsail, and 
was jammed in between the pumps. The man that went 
overboard fell flat upon the water but did not sink. I caught 
a coil of rope from the belaying pin and threw it over his 
head, and thus saved him. He was hauled on board, was 
quite black, and unable to speak ; while he that fell on deck 
was hardly hurt, and in a few days went about his duty ; 
the other was unable to leave his hammock during the 
passage. 

z 



CHAPTER XXI. 






Description of a certain class of men, — Build a dock, — Have to deal with 
curious characters, and consummate villians,— Make the best arrangement 
in my power, — Sycophants, — Eastern land speculation, — I get into it, 
— Romantic calculations, — Get handsomely cheated, — A visit, — Inci- 
dent, — Meet a squatter, — Previous description of him, — Arrangement, 
— His history, — Mosquitos, — Stop with a private family, — Interesting, 
— Scarcity of Gospel preaching, — Incidents, — Leave for Bangor, — 
Visit the Indians at Old Town, — Politeness of a Souaw. — Return to 
Boston, — Go South for timber,— Make an acquaintance at Washington,— 
Conversation on the South, — Slavery, — Bitter against the North, — His 
niggers better oil than many white men at the North, — Method of 
punishing his slaves, — Gives me much information about his plantation, 
— Slave dealer and slaves, — Description, — Arrive at Richmond, — 
Have a view of the slaves, — Price of servants, — Finds out I am from 
the North, — Indignation towards me, — Some difficulty in Wilmington, 
— Adjusted, — Go onboard the boat, — Reflections, — Arrive at Charles- 
ton, — Think of purchasing, — A pompous down east captain. — His mis- 
take, — Arrive at Savannah, — Attend Sabbath School, — Former wor- 
ship, — Attend Marshall's church, — Description, — Some account of 
Marshall, — Solemnity of his worship, — Return to Charleston, — Travel 
North with Henry Clay, — Sail for Wilmington. 

In the former part of this Look, I had occasion to speak 
of a certain class of men, whose principle aim was to de- 
fraud and impose upon all who came within their power. 
But there are others, who, under the garb of sanctity, would 
draw every drop of the vital fluid from your veins in order 
to subserve their own purpose. They always approach you 
with the bland smile, and the outstretched hand. But al- 
ways suspect a man who affects great softness of manner, 
an unruffled evenness of temper, and an enunciation stud- 
ied, slow, and deliberate. These things are all unnatural, 
and bespeak a degree of mental discipline into which he 
that has no purposes of craft or design to answer, cannot 
submit to drill himself. The most successful knaves are 
usually of this description, as smooth as razors, dipped in 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 403 

oil, and as sharp. They affect the innocence of the clove, 
which they have not, in order to hide the cunning of the 
serpent which they possess. And I will venture to say, there 
is not a man, who has reached the age of fifty, that has not 
come in contact with men of the above description. 

The longest life is but one series of experiments, or devel- 
opments which cannot be recalled, and can only be used as 
beacon lights for others. We hear much said of friendship. 
I doubt whether a man or woman lives, that can properly de- 
fine this ambiguous term. The bee is the friend of the honey- 
suckle while its petal contains the sweet ; but after that has 
ceased, he buzzes by, searching for another. The deceit- 
fulness of friendship has ruined thousands. There does not 
exist upon earth, either community or fraternity, where it 
disinterestedly predominates over the baser passions. Yet, 
in every sphere, and in every grade, we find isolated instan- 
ces of pure friendship, that needs no transformation ; it 
comes in its own celestial garb. Oh, yes ; amidst the dearth 
of this deceitful world, it comes like the sweet note of the 
skylark, which directs the eye upward. "Yet verily the 
man is a marvel whom truth can write a friend." Bid 
selfishness induce a Howard, a Lawrence, a Miss Fry, and a 
host of others, who lived only to dry the tear of affliction? 
Oh, no ; contrast these, with those grovelling wretches, sta- 
tioned upon the curb-stone or seated behind some office table 
who, with palsied hands and watery eyes, are greedily devour- 
ing from some morning print, the price of stocks, and rate 
of interest ; who are waiting the application of some needy 
individual whom they may, as an act of friendship, completely 
fleece ; thus carrying distress and mortification into the bosom 
of a once lovely family. 

It may be that I have dwelt rather long upon a subject 
which it may well be said, " every body knows." But as I 
shall have occasion to show up some of these " chaps " before 
I get through, it will do no harm to introduce them now. 

In 1833, through the suggestion of the captain of a Nor- 
wegian vessel, I made the model of a dry-dock, such as were 
in use in Norway. As the nature of our business required 
the workmen to be much of the time in the water, a dock 






404 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

of this simple construction, would obviate much of this un- 
pleasant exposure. Not having a suitable place in which to 
locate it. We did nothing about it until 1S35. My partner 
being an active and intelligent young man, remained at the 
yard, while I selected a place on which to build the dock. 
Having collected the materials, commenced it amidst the 
sneers and foolish remarks of many who pretended to have a 
great knowledge of hydraulics and hydrostatics, and many 
other things that they were totally ignorant of. 

After commencing the dock, a gentlemanly-looking man 
came to the yard, and introducing himself as one well versed 
in the sciences, remarked to me, he had understood I was 
building a floating dry-dock. " Now," said he, " allow me 
to say to you that your plan will never succeed." He then 
began a long, rigmarole story about the pressure of water, 
the immense strength that would be required to prevent its 
destruction, and the great injury which would result to the 
vessel it contained. My reply was, that I also had some 
knowledge of hydraulic pressure, and felt fully satisfied on 
that score, and at the same time should be happy to receive 
any information or suggestion that might be of service. As 
I turned to leave him, he remarked that he felt afraid it 
would prove a failure. I went about my business, not in the 
least intimidated by any remarks which had been made by 
this gentleman. Although I knew that the whole thing was 
an experiment, which if it failed, would be a serious loss to 
me. There were many, besides the gentleman alluded to, 
who gave adverse opinions, and sometimes I felt rather un- 
pleasant. When the dock was nearly completed, a man 
came to me with whom I had been acquainted many years. 
He looked pale and agitated. After going round the dock, 
and examining everything very minutely, said to me in a 
very excited manner : 

" Did you know that Mr. F d had a patent for this 

dock V 

" No, sir, I knew nothing of any patent, nor did I suppose 
that there could be anything of the kind, as it is not a new 
invention. Docks of this kind have been used in Norway 
for more than fifty years." 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 405 

11 Well," said the man, still very much excited, " I have 
had his model two years, and he has heard about this dock, 
and will put an injunction on you, unless you make some ar- 
rangement with him." 

As I then knew but little about law, or the nature of an 
injunction, I made an enquiry, and was told that if the man 
who held the patent right could make it appear that we had 
infringed on his right, he could commence a lawsuit, and at 
the same time forbid the dock being used until the case was 
decided, which might be one or two years, besides feeding a 
parcel of miserable, hungry pettifoggers. I felt very bad, not 
being at all acquainted with law, and having spent much of 
our money on the dock, and new to have to lie, and perhaps 
rot before the case could be decided, besides the expense of 
the lawsuit, appeared too hard. I have no doubt that this 
poor trembling man who had the model for two years, 
not having pluck enough to build it, and seeing the thing 
right before him, was the cause of all his trouble, and evi- 
dently the cause of ours. I accordingly went to Portsmouth 

where Mr. F resided, and made an arrangement with 

him, although I knew the patent was invalid, yet by this 
agreement the dock could be launched and put into opera- 
tion without further trouble. Notwithstanding this difficulty 
was obviated, the very paper which I supposed was a pro- 
tection appearing perfectly simple in its form, lias ulti- 
mately proved a source of much litigation and expense. 

After the death of the original, Mr. F- , the agreement 

fell into the hands of some such fellows as I have before des- 
cribed. The paper contained more technical meaning than 
I was at first aware of. It has been the cause of much subse- 
quent annoyance and expense. One more remark about the 
dock. It was launched successfully and performed admira- 
bly, answering every purpose for which it was intended, and 
these same very wise men, who predicted a failure and would 
have liked to have seen their prediction prove true, after- 
wards came to me, and had the impudence to say : 

" There, Mr. H., I knew itfien you were building that dock, 
that it was on the best plan that could be adapted ; how perfectly 
simple, and how exceedingly well it answers the purpose I" 



406 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I turned away from these contemptible ivretches, merely re- 
marking that they had better attend to their own business 
and leave me to manage my own. 

In 1836 the great Eastern land speculation came up, 
when so many " lucky " (?) individuals made their fortunes. 
I remember to have seen it stated in some popular work, 
that there has been from as far back as the tenth century, 
and up to the present time, some periodical, prevailing de- 
lusion, such as the Dutch tulip mania, South Sea bubble, 
morus multicaulis, Eastern land, &c, and they will continue 
to come, despite the sagacity and wisdom of the present, and 
probably of coming generations. As 1 had a little touch of 
the Eastern land epidemic, will say a few words about it, and 
if the reader happens to be one of the lucky ones, I hope his 
feelings will not be hurt if he should happen to see it men- 
tioned at this time. All who remember the event know how 
suddenly it came up, like the Aurora Borealis ; all at once 
the whole North-eastern hemisphere was lighted up, news- 
papers teemed with the sudden rise of Eastern land ! 

From Boston to New Orleans, all was commotion, bonds 
for townships changing hands, and at each change a profit 
of forty, fifty, and in some cases a hundred thousand dollars 
was " not!'' realized. I kept out of it until toward the last, 
when every body else had made their fortunes. One day I 
read a paragraph in the paper, something like this : 

" Lucky speculation." — Our fellow-citizen, D being at 

Bangor, bought a bond of a valuable timbered township, for 
which he was to pay (and had given his notes) fifty thousand 
dollars. He sold the bond the same day to a Philadelphia 
company for two hundred thousand, thus in a few hours, re- 
alizing a profit of a hundred and fifty thousand dollars ! ' 

This poor fellow was ultimately ruined by this hasty and 
unfortunate transaction. Before this affair came out how- 
ever, I was into it, in company with several others, who were 
considered to be very shrewd, and there was really, as we 
thought, a fortune before us. 

" Why," says V — , who was the sharpest one in the com- 
pany, "just look here;" and with his pencil had it all fig- 
ured out on his memorandum book, thus : " The land costs 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 407 

so much, — now, allowing so many thousand feet of boards 
from each acre, so many acres at and allowing for ex- 
penses and contingencies, it leaves the enormous sum of 

millions of dollars ! Why, gentlemen, here it is right before 
you ; figures can't lie you know ; we shall make a hundred 
thousand dollars apiece, sure as the world." 

Not one of us had ever seen the lot, having purchased it 
by the plan. Col. Humbug, from whom, and when we pur- 
chased it, showed us a bundle of certificates purporting to be 
from surveyors and explorers, who all gave the most flatter- 
ing accounts of the luxuriant growth of timber upon it, stat- 
ing also that it bordered on a bay where a vessel could haul 
along-side the bank, and take in the lumber. Then there was 
an abundance of black bears, and a splendid pond where a 
man might sit all day and fish; besides, there was to be a 
great military road cut through which would very much en- 
hance the worth of it. About a month after the purchase, 
when things began to leak out a little, a gentleman of our 
acquaintance was going down east to look at a lot that he had 
purchased. As he was to go directly through ours, we asked 
him to take a look and tell us what he thought about it. 
We were anxious to see him on his return, expecting to hear 
a good report of our purchase ; but what was our chagrin 
and dismay when told that he had not found it ! and that he 
had spent nearly two days, with two men who were familiar 
with every inch of the country, and no such place as our plan 
designated could be* found ! We now began to suspect; and 
would have taken fifty thousand dollars each for the specula- 
tion I We felt a sort of an inkling; that we had been sold ; so 
one of our party with myself started off for the promised 
land. First, stopping at Bangor in order to have a confer- 
ence with Col. Humbug, from whom we had made the pur- 
chase, and by much enquiry, found where our lot ought to have 
been, but it ivas'nt there I for instead of bordering on a bay as it 
was described on the plan, and where we expected to find it, 
we were told by the land agent that no such lot existed, but 
there was one bordering on the pond, that probably was the 
lot we were in search of, and after climbing over rocks, hills, 
dismal smamps, and pine forests, half devoured by mosqui- 



408 Autobiography. 

tos, reeking wet with perspiration, our clothes torn by bram- 
bles, and suffering much from thirst, came to a house. The 
door being open, we entered. Here were two cut-throat look- 
ing fellows, seated beside a table, drinking whiskey. There 
was no furniture in the room, but against the wall were two 
rifles with powder horns, and a few articles of ragged cloth- 
ing. We asked for a drink of water, which was brought us 
by a woman who looked the very image of distress. After 
obtaining what information we could get from these men, 
went off in the direction pointed out by them, and kept on 
through myriads of large, blue flies and mosquitos, dense 
woods and bogs, and at last found what we supposed to be 
the place. 

On a high and verdant hill was an old squatter who had 
cleared about forty acres, and built two log-houses. He had 
reared a family of good looking young men, and the place 
looked very fine. This man had been in the habit of cutting 
the timber and wood from any part of the lot and selling it 
on his own account. We were told on our arrival at the vil- 
lage in the vicinity, that this old fellow had understood the 
land had been sold, " but," said he, " let any one enter my 
house, and order me off, I '11 shoot him as quick as I would 
a bear." As the farm was at the top of the hill, and it be- 
ing quite a walk to reach it, we concluded however, that as 
we were to be shot on reaching the summit, to take it very 
moderately. 

The pathway, though somewhat meandering, was very 
steep, and the journey fatiguing. We at length reached the 
house, and came suddenly upon them. In one house, Mrs. 

C was washing, and when we entered the door, she 

turned quite pale, and left her work. I told her not to be 
alarmed, assuring her that we were friends. We then en- 
quired for her husband ; she at first hesitated, and then said 
he was in the next house. We went into the next house and 
found him, sitting as though in deep meditation. We saluted 
him, with, "How are you, sir?" He responded, bade us 
be seated, and after the usual prefatory talk had subsided, we 
said to him that we were the purchasers of the lot, and had 
called on him to arrange about his farm. He seemed much 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 409 

agitated, and in order to suppress any unnecessary fear_ I 
told him that we were not disposed to trouble him or to dis- 
tress his family ; that we had called on him to request that 
he would not cut off any more timber or wood from the 
place, and as he had never paid anything for his farm, we 
required him to pay two dollars per acre for the one hun- 
dred and sixty, which he then held in possession ; giving him 
seven years in which to pay it ; to which he cheerfully 
agreed. His good spouse had in the meantime tidied up a 
little, and brought us some fine strawberries and cream. In 
a joking manner, I alluded to the shooting story, at which 
he laughed very heartily, declaring that he had not owned 
a gun for five years, observing that he knew the villagers 
did not like him, and he believed that their dislike was oc- 
casioned on account of his having the best farm in that vi- 
cinity. He appeared to be an intelligent man, related the 
hardships he had endured in raising his family. "Every slab," 
said he, " in these houses, I brought from the mill on my 
shoulders, and many a time have gone several miles through 
the snow for a bag of meal. I cleared away the place 
with my own hands, and made all the improvements you 
now see." 

After having made our proposition to the old man, with 
which he appeared perfectly satisfied, we left him, and ^ de- 
scended from this fair mount again into the world of mosquitos, 
monstrous blue flies, bogs, briars,and reached the village late in 
the evening. As the next day was the Sabbath, we concluded 
to remain here until Monday morning. We stopped with a 
private family, consisting of a man, his wife, and two children. 
There was no place of worship here, and I think the nearest 
meeting-house was seven miles distant. There were perhaps 
twenty families, and quite a number of interesting children. 
This good lady told me that once in a great while, a preacher 
would come along, and when notice was given that there 
would be religious services for but one evening, the news 
would spread round the country, and those who lived on the 
borders of the river, if they could not obtain canoes or boats, 
would come down on logs, and get back the best way they 
could. And she had known them to come ten miles on a 



410 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

single log, greedily devouring every word the preacher said, 
and eagerly entreating him to come again. 

I gave her my Bible, which she received with much pleasure. 
Notwithstanding what I have said about the scarcity of 
religious instruction here, it happened that for a few weeks 
past, there had been a man from Bangor, who had preached 
once on Sabbath morning, and in the afternoon held a Sab- 
bath school. As he intended to preach in the schoolhouse, I 
very gladly attended, but was sorry to observe the behavior 
of several young men — fishermen, which was indecent and un- 
becoming. The preacher, His true, was not only uneducated, 
but quite illiterate, and what may be termed a vulgar man. 
His speech was bad, and before commencing his sermon, 
took from his pocket a plug of tobacco, opened his knife, cut 
off a quid, and commenced his sermon. Notwithstanding 
this evident breach of what we, in a more civilized part of 
the country, call propriety, he preached the truth, and I be- 
lieve him to have been a good man. On Monday morning, 
we left this place for Bangor, determined, although we 
had been cheated, to have a little ramble through down east. 
AVe visited the Indians at Old Town or Orono; they appeared 
to be quite numerous, but very filthy in their habits. One 
old squaw invited us into her wigwam ; she was engaged in 
basket making, and had a pappoose nicely stowed away in a 
birch bark cradle. 

This show of politeness was evidently intended to get 
money from us ; but she was so disgustingly dirty, we did 
not give her a cent, and her earth floor was so filthy that I 
was glad to leave it. In one corner, was a piece of fresh 
meat upon the ground, nearly covered with dirt, which was 
probably to be her next meal. We left these aboriginal 
descendants, returned to Boston, and commenced a suit 
against the fellow from whom we had purchased the moon- 
shine, recovered a part of the money, and let him run with 
the rest of these Eastern rogues. Everything relating to 
our business continued prosperous. In 1S42, we were in 
want of a quantity of hard pine timber, and as it could be 
purchased more advantageously from first hands, I went to 
Savannah for that purpose, and for expedition, ehose the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 411 

land route, as far as Wilmington, and from thence to Charles- 
ton and to Savannah by steam-boat. On my way, and when 
at Washington, I became familar with two southern gentle- 
men, who were planters, and resided in the south-western 
part of Georgia. The youngest of the two, and with whom 
I had the most conversation, was very intelligent and agreea- 
ble in his manners. Our principal conversation was about 
the South. The topics were varied, but mostly on the sub- 
ject of slavery. 

He was bitter against the North for their interference, 
and declared that his niggers were better off than one- 
fourth the population of Massachusetts. I asked him if it 
was true that slaves were whipped, and as cruelly treated as 
we sometimes read of. He replied, " That on some estates, 
where they have a bad driver, the hands are abused ; but 
then no gentleman will keep a fellow like this on his farm, 
when he is known to abuse his slaves. I never whip my nig- 
gers ; I've got a better mode of punishing than cutting them 
to pieces with a cowskin. In my barn, I've a box about six 
feet high, and just big enough for a good-sized fellow to 
stand upright in, when the door is closed. This box is driven 
through with sharp pointed nails, as thick as they can stick ; 
and when a nio-ger commits a fault, never mind whether 
man or woman, they are stripped and put into the box, where 
they remain all night. If they become sleepy, the sharp 
nails keep them awake ; and in the morning they appear 
quite tame. When a fellow has the sulks, I just remind 
him of the box, and it works upon him like magic. He 
says ' Oh, massa, don't put me in dat box ; I rudder you 
kill me.' " 

At first, I thought he was hoaxing me ; but on his assur- 
ance that what he had stated was true, I let it pass. He 
imparted to me more information about his plantation, most 
of which was of too indecent a character to remember, much 
less to publish. 

At Washington, an addition was made to our baggage 
list in the shape of thirty-five slaves, of both sexes, from the 
boy of seven years, to the old man of fifty. They were in 
charge of, and I believe owned, by two of the meanest look- 



412 AUTOBIOG RAPHY. 

ing rascals I had over met. The one that appeared to have 
the most to sav, was a thickset, swarthy looking fellow, with 
red hair, that hung about his head like sea-weed round a 
rock ; face thick with freckles, and the most wicked looking 
eye, probably, that was ever placed in a man's head. He 
wore a broad-brimmed straw hat, a hunting jacket, and long 
boots ; he had an enormous mouth, and when he laughed, 
his head was nearly off. This fellow looked like just what 
he was, a slave dealer. I was told that he had bought up 
these servants (for you must know that the southern people 
seldom say slave; they are all called either servant's or handi) 
in Maryland, and was ov>ino; to Louisiana, to sell them there, 
unless he could peddle them off on the way. When w T e ar- 
rived at Richmond, which was early in the morning, the cars 
stopped in front of a large hotel, and remained nearly half 
an hour. Immediately on their stopping, he procured a 
half gallon measure of whiskey, and served to each one a 
half gill. They were chained and handcuffed, except the 
children and one good looking mulatto woman, who was per- 
mitted to stand on the platform with a little boy. When I 
looked into the baggage car, and saw these poor creatures, I 
felt a sensation which I cannot describe, and observed that 
he spoke rather kindly to the woman, who looked very sad 
and downcast. Said I to him : 

" What do you ask for that woman ? " 

" Well, now, look here; I will sell you that ere woman for 
seven hundred dollars ; she } ll bring me double that sum in 
Mobile ; she 's rather sulky now, because they took her little gal 
away and sold her to an Alabama feller, and she has'nt got 
over it yet." 

" What do you ask for that boy ? " 

" Vll take two hundred dollars for the little cuss. I don } t 
like children ; the little devils get away, and then we Jcan't whip 
'em as %ve do a big feller." 

Not feeling much like purchasing, I declined the offer; 
and as it was about time to start, I took my seat in the car 
again, beside my former acquaintance ; and when the driver 
came in, sat beside him, and endeavored to get into conver- 
sation about his nefarious business. I commenced by asking 



AUTO BIO GRAPH Y. 413 

if lie ever separated families, or bought children that were 
taken from their parents. All at once he gave me a dis- 
dainful look, and asked me if I was not a ' ; Northern man ? " 

"Yes, I am from Boston." 

He then uttered a horrid oath, and replied, "Well, I 
thought so," and turned immediately from me. I crossed 
over to my old friend again, as the slave merchant had now 
cut my acquaintance, and given me the cold shoulder. 
Often, when on hoard a man-of-war, I have seen a poor fel- 
low seized up to the gangway, and receive three or fonr 
dozen, and perhaps only for getting intoxicated ; and how I 
have pitied him ; but could have danced for joy to have seen 
this scamp tucked up, and a hundred lashes neatly put into 
him. But never mind ; let him go. He had some difficulty 
in Wilmington, in getting his cattle through the Custom 
House, which I hoped would have detained him there, so 
that we might have been clear of his company ; but they 
were all ma relied on board the steamer, with the chains of 
liberty clanking as they go. 

While on board the boat their irons were removed, and 
they had one side of the forward deck allotted them. And 
now, let any one possessing the thousandth part of a soul, 
just take a seat on the opposite side of the deck and begin 
first with his eyes, and look upon twenty-eight poor, unfortu- 
nate adult wretches, chained and doomed to slavery, cruelty, 
and outrage, during their natural lives, and for no other 
crime than being born black. And see that sorrowful well- 
formed, bright mulatto woman, her child torn from her and 
carried, she knows not where, and in all probability herself 
reserved for the most diabolical and basest of purposes. And 
can it be possible that we are in the United States ? oh, no, 
it cannot be so; we are descending tlte Nile, ivith Nubian slaves 
for the Cairo market What ! such a sight as this in the 
only land of liberty on earth ; a land whose insignia is equal- 
ity surmounted with the liberty cap, and whose Latin motto 
is : " U joluribus unum" what an antithesis ! On our arrival 
at Charleston, they were all bound with irons, and marched 
off somewhere, probably to the jail-yard, for safe keeping. 

I had an acquaintance here on whom I called, and through 



414 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

liis politeness was conducted round the city, and introduced 
to a number of gentlemen who were affable and courteous, 
and with whom I was much pleased. As my errand to the 
South was to purchase timber, I commenced looking round 
among the immense rafts in the river here, and probably 
should have obtained what I wanted without proceeding fur- 
ther, had it not been for a development of that characteris- 
tic which we find every-where, and too often with the shrewd 
Yankee, which is : u leaving the substance to grasp at a shad- 
otv." I had concluded to take the timber if I could find a 
vessel bound East that would carry it for anything like a 
reasonable price. There were several eastern schooners dis- 
charging granite at the breakwater, that would soon be ready, 
and one that was already to receive a frieght. 

1 procured a boat, with two negroes, and pulled off to her. 
The captain was walking the quarter-deck, and when nearly 
along-side, we lie on our oars. The skipper came to the break 
of the deck, with both thumbs placed in the armhole of his 
vest. 

" Good morning, sir," said I, " are you bound East f" 

" Yes, sir, I am." 

" What will you take a cargo of timber to Boston for ?" 

" Well, I don't know ; I expect freights are good now, and 
don't like to set a price till I have looked round." 

" Well, sir, I can assure yon that the merchants on shore 
tell me there is not a ton of frieght in Charleston for the 
East, and as I am in haste to get back to Boston, will give 
you seven dollars per thousand, which is fifty cents more 
than the usual rate." 

" I guess freight is good or else you wouldn't have come off. 
I can't give you an answer now." 

" Shove off, boys," said I, and we went on shore. 

I remained in Charleston three days, and frequently saw this 
captain driving through the streets with his hat off, and wip- 
ing the perspiration from his face and looking forme, but lie 
was too late, and went East entirely empty. I have men- 
tioned this apparently trifling circumstance, merely to show 
how apt we are to leave a surety for an uncertainty, and 
most of our losses and perplexities occur from an inordinate 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 415 

desire to get more, and we often discover, when too late, that 
our calculations required a little shrewdness as a counter- 
poise. 

Now the point of failure with this captain was not in re- 
fusing to take up with my offer at once, for he was hound to 
get the highest freight that could he obtained ; this was a 
duty he owed to himself and to his owners. But here was a 
tangible offer over the common rate, and he should have gone 
immediately on shore with me, when he would have learned 
there what he afterwards found to be true, that there were 
no freights for the North, and could have earned seven hun- 
dred dollars rather than to have gone home with nothing. 

In conversation with a wealthy merchant once, on this very 
subject, he remarked that he owed his success to one estab- 
lished principle on which he had always acted, (with only one 
exception,) which was, never to refuse a good paying offer, 
under an expectation that the article would rise. And the 
exception was, once he had a lot of hides, for which he 
had a good offer before they were discharged from the vessel. 
His broker told him that they were on the rise, and that ho 
had better store them. He did so, and lost the whole. 

I took the steamer for Savannah, and arrived there late 
on Saturday night, took up my residence at the Pulaski 
House, and an excellent hotel it was. On Sabbath morning 
I attended the Baptist Sunday School. It was well attended, 
and well conducted. There were many colored children, but 
chiefly females. The Baptist preacher, whose name I have 
forgotten, was a very energetic and off-hand man, and after 
the services, the ordinance of baptism was administered ; and 
in his address to the audience, remarked in a very feeling 
manner, that there were those before him that were kept 
hack by diffidence and unbelief from following the example 
of those who were shortly to be buried with Christ by bap- 
tism. 

" Yes, my beloved friends, there are those before me that 
I would give worlds to dispel their doubts and baptize them, 
but there are also those whose lives and example is such that 
I would give worlds to unbaptize them." 

The house was densely crowded, and a marked solemnity 



416 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

pervaded the whole. In the afternoon I attended the Baptist 
church for colored people. The house is well situated and 
very commodious. I went early and was offered a front seat. 
The house was soon tilled to its utmost capacity, and all were 
neatly dressed, particularly the women, who were generally 
clad in calico gowns, with either a white or a colored hand- 
kerchief on their heads, and with snow-white aprons neatly 
tied. Although the choir was quite large, containing some 
of the sweetest voices in the world, yet the whole audience 
joined in the singing. The preacher was the celebrated 
" Old Marshall" and was then upwards of eighty years old. 
He was brought from Gambia with his mother when quite a 
child, and had been nearly seventy years a slave, but by in- 
dustry and frugality had saved enough of his little earnings 
to purchase his freedom. He was an early convert to the 
Christian faith, and for many years had been a preacher, 
had picked up his own education by close and assiduous ap- 
plication. He had been free about ten years when I heard 
him ; but the poor fellow, notwithstanding his age, had only 
a few months before been tied up and whipped with a cow- 
hide for buying from a slave a few bricks which he told Mar- 
shall were his own property ; but the law strictly forbade a 
colored man from buying anything from a slave under a 
penalty of a certain number of lashes. His text was, I 
think, the whole of the fourteenth chapter of John. His read- 
in <t was clear and distinct and his enunciation excellent, ex- 
cepting the negro pronunciation of " brederen," for " breth- 
ren." He went through the chapter with much spiritual 
feeling and simplicity, during most of the time seemed much 
affected. At the close of the sermon the communion was 
celebrated. Very few went away, they merely retiring from 
the body of the house, leaving that for the communicants, 
whom I should think numbered about three hundred. This 
was the most interesting scene of the whole. After singing 
a hvmn in perfect time, and in most solemn melody, another 
colored preacher engaged in prayer, after which Marshall 
commenced breaking the bread. 

All was still as death ; my eye was steadily fixed upon 
him, watching every emotion, and when the bread was broken, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 417 

he raised his venerable head, the tears stealing down the fur- 
rows that grief had ploughed for them. 

" My dear beloved brederen and sisters, dis is de broken bod// 
of our blessed Lord and Master. He hwiv what it is to have 
de cow-skin on his blessed back ; but he was whipped for our 
transgression, dot we might be happy and go where he is, ivhere 
dar is no more slave" 

At this last sentence, his watery eyes beamed with a heav- 
enly lustre. Neither the pen of a ready writer, nor the most 
eloquent speaker, could have done justice to describe this 
communion season in all its pathos. 

After having finished my business in Savannah, I took the 
steamer for Charleston, on my return homeward. On arriv- 
ing there, ascertained that Henry Clay had left the city only 
the day before for Wilmington, N. C, having been South on 
an electioneering tour. There had been great times in 
Charleston on his account, and probably the excitement 
would be great all through to Washington. Not having any 
business to detain me in Charleston, 1 proceeded to Wilming- 
ton. 

AA 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Gamblers, — Their description, — Plays, — A young man made a victim, — 
Incident,— Result of desperation, — Arrive at Wilmington, — Great 
preparations for Henry Clay, — Description of the road, — Speeches, — 
Enthusiasm, — Ludicrous conduct, — Arrive at "Weldon, — Introduction 
to Mr. Clay, — Arrive at Washington, — Ship to be blown up, — Torpedo, 
— Meet Mr. King, — Invitation to visit House of Kepresentatives,— Great 
Excitement, — Account of the blowing up, — Exciting scene in the 
house, — Laughable story, — Confusion of members, — Nothing occurs 
for several years, — Myself and friend visit a tract of land in Athens, — 
Conversation with a negro, — His story, — Learns to read, — Employment 
on board a packet, — Kuns away, — Is detected, — Sold, — Secreted on 
Board a Boston ship, — Arrives in Boston, — Sails as cook, — Married, — 
Settled, — Arrive at Portland, — Take stage for Augusta, — Leave Augus- 
ta for Skowhegan, — Incident and story on the way, — Arrive at Skow- 



hegan, — Further about the affair. 



On board the steamer, there were a set of fellows which I 
at once set down for gamblers, nor was I mistaken ; they 
are generally known by their rig and habits, and any one 
who has travelled through the Southern, or Western states, 
can always distinguish them by certain unmistakable signs, 
viz : Inveterate chewers of tobacco, great smokers, large, 
bushy whiskers, when they can raise them, and sometimes 
only the moustache, hair, nice and sleek, generally curled or 
frizzled, a massive ring on the little finger of the right hand, 
with two or three others distributed among the digits ; a 
very large and apparently valuable watch establishment, 
with a very poor watch attached. 

Ileal gamblers are seldom addicted to drinking ardent 
spirits, reserving their w T its as their stock in trade, and when 
together, often have some trifling incident which elicits the 
broad, silly laugh. 

Among the passengers was a young man about twenty 
years of age, who had with him a black leather valise, which 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 419 

he put in his state-room, opposite where I was then sitting; 
then came into the cabin, locked his state-room door. After 
the supper table had been cleared, preparation was made for 
playing cards. I took a seat near by, determined to watch 
the proceeding as closely as possible. The young man with 
the valise made one of the party, three of the gamblers 
making up the rest, while two others were apparently care- 
less lookers-on. Now for the villany. 

Each of these lookers-on had a small, ivory-headed cane, 
which I could plainly see was in continual motion against 
the back of his comrade. When they had played nearly an 
hour, the young man arose, completely fleeced. Champagne 
was freely supplied of which he frequently drank. I thought 
of the many gambling scenes that I had read of, but here 
was one directly before me. The young man took from his 
pocket a cigar, and with trembling fingers attempted to light 
it, but suddenly remembering that smoking w T as contrary to 
the rules in the cabin, replaced the cigar, arose, and pacing 
the cabin a few times, went to his state-room, brought out his 
valise, threw it upon the table, saying, " gentlemen, there 
are seven thousand dollars ; the money is not mine, it belongs 
to my employers ; produce a like sum, and I am your man." 
In a few minutes they declared that the money was ready. 

Although there were a number of gentlemen present, not 
one of. them possessed magnanimity enough to interpose and 
rescue the young man from impending ruin. It may be 
asked why I did not interpose, and sure enough, why did I 
not? But the sequel will show that it needed the inter- 
ference of more than one. Just as he had thrown the va- 
lise upon the table, as though struck with a sudden impulse 
of conscience, took it again, restored it to his state-room, and 
closed the door. 

I left the scene and went upon deck. Not long after I 
had left the cabin, one of the passengers came up, and told 
me there w r as trouble below ; that one of the gamblers went 
to the young man's state-room, and presenting a loaded pis- 
tol, told him as they had been bullied into the stake, he 
must come out and put up his money or he would blow his 
brains out. He rushed to the table, played, lost his money, 



420 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and was ruined ! Young reader, do you ever play cards ? if 
so, remembei' the fate of this young man ! Before finishing my 
narrative, I shall have occasion to refer to other scenes simi- 
lar to the one just described and of which I was also an eye- 
witness. 

On arriving at Wilmington, found the place "alive with 
Henry Clay ! " They had prepared an extra train of cars to 
convey him and a large company of volunteers, to Weldon. 
On the rear car, a gun was mounted with which to announce 
his approach to the several stations, where the inhabitants, 
having been notified, collected in order to greet the great 
statesman. Banners and mottoes were streaming from ev- 
ery car, and his reception at the stations was quite enthusi- 
astic. The people were collected in large groups, dressed in 
their best attire, particularly the ladies ; and when Mr. Clay 
alighted, there went forth a shout that made the welkin rin^. 
They immediately formed a circle round him, expecting a 
short speech ; he first shook hands with the ladies and gen- 
tlemen, and then addressed them for ten or fifteen minutes. 
As I was in the mail train we could not, at all times, stop 
until he had finished ; but usually met at the next station. 
At one of the towns at which we stopped, before arriving at 
Weldon, a very large crowd had collected, who appeared to 
be of a different character from those we had previously 
met ; there were few ladies among them, and when our cars 
stopped, the other train was not yet in sight. Among the 
crowd there was an old fellow, whose hair was perfectly 
white; he held his hat in his hand, and was running on in 
the most extravagant manner against Mr. Clay. His voice 
was sharp and shrill, and he was surrounded by a gang of 

men and boys, and crying out, " Henry Clay, the traitor, 

if he comes near me, I'll just put my fist in his face; don't 
hi him come near one, the scoundrel ;" then up goes a cheer. 
At first I thought the fellow crazy, but it appeared that he 
was perfectly rational, and I feared that when Mr. Clay ar- 
rived, there would be trouble. The ears were now in sight 
The moment they stopped, Mr. Clay was surrounded by the 
crowd, in the centre of which was this noisy old fellow, who 
immediately approached him, and grasping his hand, says : 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 421 

" Mr. Clay, bless your good old soul, you shall be our next 
President; yes, you shall, and show me the man who dares 
to say aught against it !" Up went three hearty cheers for 
Henry Clay, who in a brief manner thanked them for their 
good feeling. As it was getting late, the Clay party gave 
these equivocal patriots a gun, and we all started for Wel- 
don, where we arrived at two o'clock, P. M. A large col- 
lection were there from many miles around to participate in 
the dinner ; flags were flying, and guns firing in all direc- 
tions, and deputations were continually arriving to greet the 
Presidential candidate. 

I had an introduction to him as from Boston, when he with 
much apparent amazement asked me how I happened to be 
there. " I replied, I came here to see you, sir." He laugh- 
ed, and we were all crowded into the dining rooms which had 
been fitted up for the purpose, and partook of an excellent 
dinner, but we of the mail cars, were obliged to retire before 
the others, as our hour for starting was four P. M. 

On arriving at Washington, I learned that on the after- 
noon of that day, a torpedo experiment was to be tried upon 
a ship of four hundred tons ; it was to take place within 
about two miles of the Navy Yard. As I had a desire to see 
how they managed matters in Congress, concluded to remain 
a few days. 

While on my way to the Capitol, I met Hon. Mr. King, 
who had been our speaker in the Massachusetts legislature 
for the last year. He politely invited me to accompany him 
to the house ; but as the ship was to be blown up in a few 
hours, deferred my visit to Congress until the following day. 
It was evident from the movement of the people, and the 
enormous price of carriage hire, that the blowing up affair 
was to be something great. I started off at an early hour 
and secured a good place very near the torpedo buoy ; the 
collection of citizens on both sides the river was immense, 
and at half past four, the ship came round the point with all 
sail set, right before the wind. She was a fine looking ves- 
sel, but was doomed to destruction: and when she had ap- 
proached within a hundred yards of the buoy, the lieutenant 
in charge raised his hat to the multitude, and with his boats' 



422 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

crew went over the side. Now was a moment of excitement. 
Her bow had just touched the buoy, and in another moment 
she was a mass of fragments ; the destruction was so instan- 
taneous that it was impossible to describe it in detail. I 
could perceive that she broke off amidships, and both ruptur- 
ed euds were considerably raised ; but in an instant all was 
flat, floating on the surface, hardly two pieces of wood remain- 
ing together. 

Immediately after the destruction of the ship, three other 
torpedoes were discharged, raising a huge column of water, 
two hundred feet high, very much resembling a shaft of crys- 
tal, rising suddenly from the bed of the ocean ; the smoke, 
beautifully curling into a pyramid, added much to the grand- 
eur of the scene. Next day, by invitation, I visited the 
House of representatives, took a seat in the gallery opposite 
the speaker. The House had been called to order, but every- 
thing appeared to be in the utmost confusion. The speaker 
sat in his desk quietly reading a newspaper, when suddenly 
a voice called out, " Mr. Speaker," then another, still louder, 
" Mr. Speaker," and another louder yet, " Mr. Speaker." 
The Speaker then gave a rap on his desk announcing the 
name of the gentleman who had the floor. The subject which 
had occupied the House on the day previous, was an appro- 
priation for some improvement in the condition of our west- 
ern frontier. It had been warmly discussed, and was likely 
to go by the board, but the gentleman now announced being 
in favor of the measure, and in the face of all opposition, 
was determined to put it through. He commenced thus : 

" Mr. Speaker, allow me sir, to relate an anecdote which oc- 
curred in the town from which I came. "A young man, 
with whom I was intimately acquainted, had paid his ad- 
dresses to a lady with whom I was also acquainted, and for 
a season all went on very well. Suddenly something trans- 
pired which put an end to the intimacy for the present, and 
the gentleman was forbidden ever to enter the house again. 
He was much distressed and earnestly sought an interview 
witli the offended lady ; but was denied the privilege of see- 
ing her. He at length determined on the last effort of rec- 
onciliation. He went to the house, rang the bell, was admit- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 423 

ted, and wished to see the lady for the last time, (unless they 
could make the matter up.) She came, and he thus addres- 
sed her. ' My dear, we have been acquainted for some time ; 
our acquaintance has ripened into friendship and love ; you 
have discarded me for an evident misunderstanding. Now 
let us blot everything from the page of remembrance, and 
begin anew/ They mutually embraced, renewed the ac- 
quaintance, and were finally married. Now, Mr. Speaker, 
this is my position ; let us act as wisely as this young couple 
did, and commence anew." This created a general laugh 
throughout the house. 

I had been two years in the Massachusetts Legislature, and 
had witnessed some things which I considered rather deroga- 
tory to the character of respectable men, and now plainly 
saw that I had not seen everything. All around the floor 
were groups of men, busily engaged in noisy conversation, 
apparently regardless of the subject under discussion, and 
others were debating a point, evidently under much excite- 
ment, and interlarding their remarks with dreadful oaths, 
apparently regardless of anything like decorum. I left this 
babel, and to change the scene, took a walk in a flower 
garden. Comment on the City of Washington is unnecessa- 
ry now ; I leave it for those more capable of faithfully 
delineating the true character of the Capitol during a 
Session of Congress. I left Washington for Baltimore, and 
on arriving there learned that a mob had just destroyed a 
printing-press, the excitement of which had hardly subsided ; 
took my seat for Boston, and arrived home on the 10th of 
June. 

Several years passed without any event transpiring worthy 
of note, except that during this time I had received from a 
man who was indebted to me, a deed of a tract of land in 
the town of Athens, in Maine. One of my neighbors had 
also received a deed from the same source, and under the 
same circumstances. We had mutually promised that at 
some convenient season we would go and examine our newly 
acquired estate. At length the time came. We took the 
steamer for Portland, on our way to Athens. We left Bos- 
ton, late in the afternoon — had a pleasant night. I was out 



424 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

very early next morning, in order to get a look at the land. 
I went amidships, leaned over the rail, and as we were close 
in shore, I had a good opportunity for gratifying my desire. 
Along-side of me was a negro, who was also scanning the 
shore along. I remarked to him that here would he a nice 
place to raise grapes. He turned to me with an indignant 
smile. 

" Grapes ! sir ? These people raise grapes ?" Why, sir, 
they are too lazy to make a hoe handle, but will send to 
Boston to buy one. If you are going down East, you will see 
two or three lazy lubbers spend a whole day in a boat, and 
catch twenty-five cents worth of fish, rather than go to 
work, as they might do, and earn a dollar apiece. There is 
no more soul in these eastern fellows than there is in a 
sculpin." 

" Do you live here ?" 

" Yes sir, I reside in Bangor, and have a wife and two 
children. I own a small house, a good sized pig, a cow, and 
a lot of chickens. I have just returned from Porto Rico, in 
a Boston brig, and am now returning home. I was speaking 
of these eastern fellows not having any spunk ; on the 
passage home we had a couple of chaps that belonged to 
Ellsworth. The mate flogged them every day, and they had 
not spunk enough to resist him ; and even after we had got 
in, they were as meaching to him as kittens. I don't think 
much of these down-easters, anyhow." 

" How long have you lived here among them ?'! 

"Well, sir, I have been married about three years ; am a 
runaway slave, and think I shall have time to relate to you 
my story. I believe I was born in Richmond, but am not cer- 
tain, nor did I ever know anything about my parents. The 
first thing I ever knew was, of being a little boy in Tap- 
pahannock. My master had a little son near my age, whose 
name was William, but they called him Billy. My master 
died when I was quite young, and Billy taught me my letters, 
by making them in the sand ; it was against the law for 
any one in Tappahannock to teach their slaves to read. 
Billy and I were good friends ; my mistress was a nice 
woman, and I seldom got a whipping. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 425 

" When I grew a big boy, my mistress let me out to a man 
that followed packeting form Norfolk to Richmond. On 
board this packet I learned to read, by taking the letters off 
the boxes, and getting Billy to show me how to put them to- 
gether, and very soon could read a chapter in the Bible, and 
reckon figures. When I was old enough, my mistress allow- 
ed me to marry. I had been acquainted with a nice girl, 
that belonged to a man up river. I paid him seventy-five 
dollars for her for three years, and at the end of that time, 
if I paid two hundred more, I might have her altogether. 

" The captain of the schooner had a job to supply a steam- 
boat that run to Philadelphia with coal ; we carried two 
loads there. 

" One day, one of the men at work with us, says to me, 'Bill, 
why don't you cut sticks now ? You are in a free State, and 
now is your chance ! ' 

" This was the first time I ever thought of running away. 
There was a colored family that lived a little way from 
where we discharged our coal, and the old man was one who 
waited on parties. I told him I had a mind to run away, 
but had left my wife and some money at home, and the next 
trip would manage to bring my wife and mqney, and be a 
free man. When I got back to Eichmond, I got a fellow to 
bring my wife up to the schooner, and the captain consented 
to let her go with me to Philadelphia. I took her ashore, 
and my old colored friend got a place for her in the country. 
I then made tracks for New York, got a voyage as steward 
of a packet ship to Havre. Was gone four months, and on 
my return to New York, went to Philadelphia to see about 
my wife. My old friend was mighty glad to see me, but 
told me bad news about her. She had a place in an aboli- 
tion family, but they treated her so bad, she went back and 
gave herself up to her old master. I believe " continued the 
negro, " that the slaves at the South would have been much 
better off if the Northern people had let them alone, and 
not troubled them at all. 

" I went back to New York, and got a voyage to New Or- 
leans. I knew I was a fool for doing so ; but perhaps it is 
just as well now. When we reached the city, I was marched 



426 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

off to prison for safe keeping, till the ship was ready for sea. 
As I went along with the policeman, who should I fall in 
with, but a man that lived the next house to my mistress; he 
knew all about my running away, so I was put in irons, and 
was confined as a runaway slave. Information of my arrest 
was sent home, and in two weeks Billy had arrived at New 
Orleans, and came to the prison to see me. When I saw 
him, these eyes began to leak, and he was a baby too, and in 
a few minutes, says, ' Bill, as soon as mother heard you were 
here, she sent me to tell you if you would come back with 
me, she would overlook all ; but if you refuse to return on 
these terms, I have orders to sell you.' 

" I told him that as I had now tasted liberty, couldn't think 
of beino; a slave any longer. 

" ' Well then, you must be sold.' 

" He advertised me in the newspaper, and gave me a first- 
rate character, and brought me one to read. When mv wife 
went back, her master did not whip her, nor even say a hard 
word to her, but my mistress claimed her, because she was 
my wife. I was sold to a tobacco merchant, and put in the 
packing house to take account of the shipments, and in thir- 
ty-seven days from the time that I was sold, I was in Boston. 
I had got acquainted with the steward, while in prison, and 
the night before the ship went from the levy, I was stowed 
away between two bales of cotton behind the pantry, and lie 
on my side the whole passage ; the .steward fed me through 
a small hole in the boards. 

" At midnight, after the day of our arrival, when all was 
still, the steward hauled me out, and with a o;ood deal of 
trouble carried me on deck, but I was totally blind. There 
were two colored men that kept a shop in Brattle street, 
waitino; for me with a wagon. I was taken to a house, 
washed, and a suit of clothes were given me. They kept 
me with them a few days until I could see. I then got a 
vovage on board a Bangor briff for Havana, and have sailed 
out of Bangor ever since, and that is three years ago." 

This was Bill's story, and I have endeavored to repeat it 
just as he told it to me. 

We left Portland, and according to directions, proceeded 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 427 

to Augusta in the mail stage, where we were to enquire our 
way to Athens. Augusta is a pretty place ; we remained 
here two days, and took the mail stage for Skowhegan. The 
weather being warm, and the inside of the coach somewhat 
crowded, I took a seat outside with the driver. While rid- 
ing through this barren region, I observed to a man who was 
sitting beside me, that a large farm of such land as this, 
would give a fellow the horrors. He turned to me, and said : 
" Did you ever have the horrors ? " 
"Yes, many times." 

" Well, then, you know how to pity me." 
"Why, what's the matter?" 

" Well, sir, I will tell you. I am under charge of the 
sheriff ; he is inside, and I am going back to Skowhegan." 
He then related the following story : 
" I live about eighteen miles from Boston ; (I have for- 
gotten the name of the town, although familiar to me for 
many years after. ) One of my neighbors came to me and said 
he wanted to raise two hundred dollars to meet a payment 
due on his. farm. ' Now,' said he, 'I have a note against a 
man at Skowhegan, Maine, for one hundred and sixty-five 
dollars, for a shingle-machine that 1 sold him, a year ago 
this month. This note is now due, and I am sure that he 
can pay it immediately. I will sell you the note for one 
hundred dollars cash, and must have the money in three 
days. I gave him the hundred dollars and took the 
note. I had never seen any part of Maine, and thought I 
should like a trip to the eastward ; so I commenced my jour- 
ney, and arrived at Skowhegan four days ago ; found the 
man that owed the note. He was a gallows-looking rascal, 
and at first was going to strike me, and asked me what I 
meant by bringing him a forged note. Said I to him, 
' What do you mean by a forged note ? I bought it of that 
man/ pointing to the name. By this time I was surounded 
by a dozen real, vagabond-looking fellows ; the man swore 
he had paid the note, and said that he could produce it ; 
and the next morning brought a note which he swore was 
the genuine one which he had paid ; still swearing that mine 



428 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

was forged. Seeing how matters stood, I took the stage for 
home, to lay the matter before the man from whom I had 
bought it. I reached Augusta in the evening, intending to 
leave next morning ; but just as I had seated myself at the 
breakfast table, the sheriif came in, and arrested me on a 
charge of forgery and am now on my way back to Skowhe- 
gan." 

By this time, we had arrived at Waterville ; the coach 
drew up to the tavern, for the passengers to dine. The 
sheriff took charge of his man. I followed them into the 
parlor, and remarked to the sheriff : 

" I see you have a prisoner there, sir. We sat together on 
the coach, and he has related to me the circumstances of his 
detention ; 1 think there is some mystery about it." 

" Yes, sir ; it is a hard case for our friend here, anyhow." 

Dinner was ready, but the prisoner would not eat. I urged 
him to take some food, as he had eaten no breakfast, and it 
would be late in the afternoon before we should arrive at 
Skowhegan. He still refused, saying that his distress was 
so great, he felt no desire for food. Away from home, among 
strangers, arrested for forgery, and without means to defend 
himself. I partook of a hasty dinner, and returned to him. 

" Now" said I, " if your statement to me is true, I will 
be your friend, and remain by you until we see the result. 
If you are in want of money, I will give you enough to pay 
your expenses ; so now cheer up ; you may rely on me as 
your friend." 

Hearing this, he seemed much affected, took my hand, and 
thanked me kindly. The stage being ready, we mounted to 
our seats again, with the prisoner by my side. He appeared 
to be an honest, simple-hearted man, owned a small farm, 
and had left a wife and one child at home. He said that 
the greatest cause of his distress was, that when he left home, 
he did not expect to be absent but a few days, and now he 
feared that his farm and stock would suffer, and his wife 
would also feel alarmed for him. 

" Don 't let that trouble you," said I ; " keep a stiff upper 
lip, and never be frightened, if you are innocent. If you 
are an innocent man, you have nothing to fear." 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 429 

At five, P. M., we arrived at Skowhegan. In front of the 
tavern was a long piazza, crowded with a gang of bloated, 
raowd, state prison-looking loggers, and the most conspic- 
uous among them, was the hero of the shingle-machine. 
He was about half clad, and little more than half intoxi- 
cated. My friend, the prisoner, myself and sheriff went 
into the sitting-room, and closed the door. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

Termination of the shingle-machine affair, — Obtain a horse and chaise 
and start for Athens, — Description of the roads, — Sentiment, — Stop 
to rest, — Dismal appearance of the country. — See a house, — Get to 
it, — Happen to hit on the right man, — Explain our visit, — Kindly 
treated, — Description of land speculators, — Describe our lots, — They 
are valueless, — Remarks on Athens, — Remain all night, — Affecting 
story, — Reflections, — Early breakfast, — Depart. — Ride up to a tavern, 
— Plentiful supply, — Arrive at Skowhegan, — Description, — Start for 
Boston, — Disposal of our land. 

I informed the sheriff that I was the prisoner's friend and 
should not leave him until justice had been done. " If this 
man has come all the way from Boston with a forged note 
against that ' cut-throat looking villain,' with an expectation 
of getting money from him, then he deserves the highest 
punishment that the law can inflict. But, sir, if on the other 
hand, it turn- out that all this is a scheme to defraud this 
man of the genuine note, I am determined to put him through 
and have that fellow punished. " 

The gentleman who was my fellow traveller to Athens was 
also a sympathizer with me in behalf of the prisoner, and 
was willing to remain until the case was decided. The first 
thing now to be done was to procure able counsel, if such 
could be found in these regions, and it must be done imme- 
diately. 

The sheriff recommended me to a squire somebody, who 
resided in a village seven miles distant. I accordingly made 
preparation to go for him, and went out on the piazza among 
the people who, by this time, had considerably increased. 
They gathered round me, enquiring what was to lie done with 
the forger. I now explained to them my position ; that after 
hearing the man's story, I believed that a plan had been ar- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 431 

ranged to defraud hirn out of the note and probably to 
extort money from him. " Now, gentlemen, I am his friend 
to any amount, and am determined that the guilty party shall 
be punished." Turning to the miserable object who was the 
cause of this trouble, said I, " how is it that there are two 
notes alike, unless you wrote a duplicate for this very pur- 
pose? And I wish to ask another question. You say you 
paid the note two months ago ; why did you pay before it 
came to maturity 1 you don't look as if you were over-run 
with money." And while talking with the fellow, the land- 
lord beckoned for me to come in ; he then took me aside and 

said: 

" I think, sir, this matter can be adjusted without further 
trouble. That fellow is now under bonds for stealing logs, 
and is not worth a red cent. I think if you will come in and 
see the sheriff with me, the whole matter can be settled with- 
out further trouble." 

And now, reader, what do you think flashed across my 
mind ? could it be possible that the landlord tvas at the 
bottom of the whole transaction, and when he found that 
the man had a friend he teas' glad to back out ? And to 
end this villanous affair it was adjusted that night; and 
in the morning our quondam prisoner came to me with a 
cheerful countenance, saying that all was right ; he had been 
remunerated and was going home in the next stage. Al- 
though this story may appear like fiction, yet I assure the 
reader it is strictly true. 

We ascertained that Athens lay in a northern direction 
about twelve miles distant. Obtained a horse and chaise and 
commenced our journey very early next morning ; previously 
parlaking of a hearty breakfast. The first few miles was 
through a decent country, bearing a luxuriant growth of 
stunted pine trees ; the road, however, was richly lined with 
bushes, and here and there a few red and green blackberries. 
Our path now lay up the side of a young mountain, the top 
of which looked as high as the clouds. The sun shone brightly, 
imparting much warmth. And the old horse showed evident 
signs that his pores were not in the least obstructed, and in 
order to relieve the poor brute, we both got out and walked 



432 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

behind, pushing the team ahead with all our might. We 
soon discovered that going to Athens was altogether up-hill 
work, and after four hour's drag, we reached the summit and 
stopped to rest, for we had actually pushed the horse most of 
the way up. I sat down and began to sentimentalize. I 
cast my eyes around to catch a sight of Athens, either of 
Mars Hill or the Acropolis, crowned with the majestic Par- 
thenon, but saw nothing before me but one vast desert of 
white rocks. My companion was a whole-souled fellow, and 
we really enjoyed this scene of desolation. All at once I 
fell into a reverie. What is life in nine cases out of ten, but 
what is here so clearly illustrated ? Youth starts out into 
the world with fine and flattering expectations. The road 
for a few years is balmy and pleasant, but he soon finds that 
many of his prospects, like the pine trees, are stunted, and 
that gold does not grow on bushes by the roadside. In 
climbing the hill, he not only drags his own weary limbs 
along, but often has to push others ahead, and after all this 
fatigue, when at the top, what does he see but a dreary waste 
of barren rocks ? 

All three of us now being sufficiently rested, we bipeds got 
into the chaise and concluded that as we had pushed the old 
horse up hill, it was no more than fair that he should drag 
us down. We began to descend, and very soon lost sight of 
land. Here we were now on a sea of rocks, of every species, 
reaching quite round to the horizon. The road led to a deep 

valley. 

After riding an hour, we saw in the distance a green spot, 
when on a nearer approach discovered a house and barn 
near by, surrounded by some well cultivated land, and when 
within a quarterof a mile of it, I got out, went over to make 
enquiry of the people in what direction Athens lay. I 
jumped over the fence and saw a good looking old man in 
the barn yard, whom I saluted. 

" How do you do, sir? will you have the kindness to direct 
me the road to Athens ?" 

" Why, sir, you are in Athens now ! n 

"Do you call this Athens?" 

" Yes, sir, this is Athens." 






AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 433 

I went back a short distance, waved my hat to iny friend 
in the chaise, when the former kindly offered to pilot him in. 
I had not yet made known my business to him, but as we 
were now all together, told hi in that we had come here to 
hunt up two tracts of land, having the deeds with us, and 
asked him if he could direct us to any one that could point 
out the lots to us. 

" Oh, yes, sir, I am the register of deeds and commission- 
er for Athens. If you will show me your deeds 1 can inform 
you of their location. Gentlemen, walk into the house, and 
I will take care of your horse." 

We entered and he introduced us to his wife, a fine, healthy, 
lady-like looking woman, and a family of six rosy, chubby- 
looking children the very picture of health. The lady was 
extremely kind, and immediately made preparation to get us 
some refreshment. In a few minutes a table was spread with 
an abundant supply of good things. After partaking of 
them, the old gentleman sat down with us, giving an enter- 
taining account of the Eastern land speculation, relating 
many anecdotes of half-mad purchasers who came there with 
large, and well-drawn plans, having upon them broad and 
rapid rivers, excellent mill sites, with a gigantic growth of 
pine trees, none of which had ever been found, nor did they 
ever exist. 

He knew about our lots, and said he could point them out 
if we would walk to a small hill a few rods from the house. 
When we had reached the summit with the plan in hand, he 
commenced with me. 

" You see that farthest ridge yonder ? You observe there 
are two ?" 

" Yes, it looks like a little streak along the horizon." 

" Yes ; well your lot lies beyond that !" 

" Why, that is beyond sundown !" 

II Yes, 'tis a long way off, but there is a large swamp just 
this side, and it would be rather difficult to reach it now, the 
mosquitos are so thick they would devour a man in a few 
hours." 

" What kind of land is it ?" 



BB 



434 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" Well sir, it is rather stony, and there is some wood there, 
but there is no way to get it off." 

" What do you think it is worth ?" 

" That is rather hard to say, for nobody wants it. You 
might possibly get twenty-five cents an acre by giving a long 
credit." 

Having obtained all the information, and much more than 
I desired, about my lot, my companion wished his pointed 
out. 

" Oh, your lot lies just here ; you have passed over a great 
part of it in coming here." 
. " What ! all those rocks ?" 

" Yes sir." 

We both burst into a hearty laugh. 

" Halloo, Ben," said I, " your fortune is made, sure. All 
you have to do is, to notify the King of Holland that you 
can supply him with granite for building his contemplated 
city on the grand bank. And now, you have the advantage 
over me, for you can walk over your ground, while I can't 
reach mine, without going* to it in a balloon. We have now 
seen ' where our possessions lie,' and are standing on a hill 
in Athens, which might have been called Mare Hill ; but I 
think that Cecrops was not the founder of this modern city, 
neither will it ever become a seat of kingly authority, under 
another Codrus, nor the capital of a modern Greece ; and if 
another Paul should ever come here to preach, he would 
probably choose the words of his predecessor for a text, 'Finally, 
brethren, farewell/ for I hardly think he would ever visit it 
again." 

We returned to the house. As it was late in the after- 
noon, we were politely solicited to remain all night, as it was 
seldom they saw strangers, and particularly those that were 
all the way from Boston. 

We consented to stay. He then invited us out, and 
showed us around his farm, which was like a beautiful oasis 
in the desert. It consisted of about forty acres, and -.vas 
under excellent culture. He had resided on it ten years ; 
had formerly lived in New Hampshire, but meeting with a 
heavy loss, retired with his family to the wilderness, selected 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 435 

this spot, and by hard labor and rigid economy, had made 
his farm what it was. " But," said he, " I am like a man on 
a rapid river in a boat, pulling against the current, if I stop 
one minute, my boat is swept down, and it is hard work to 
regain my former position. We have excellent health, and 
have lost but one child since we have been here. Our 
eldest daughter died in March, which was a heavy stroke for 
us, and 1 thought it would have carried my wife off too." 
Previous to retiring, the lady again alluded to the last ill- 
ness and death of this amiable girl : she very imprudently 
went a short distance from the house early in the morning, 
while the ground was quite wet ; her shoes being very thin, 
she took a violent cold, which led to rapid consumption. She 
pined away very fast, so that her hip bones protruded 
through the skin. 

She begged her father to remove her from the soft bed, 
and let her lie upon the floor ; the father, to gratify her, 
complied, but she could not endure it a minute, and wished 
to be put back again. She then called her parents, little 
brothers and sisters to her bedside, kissed them all, and 
dropped sweetly away into the arms of her Saviour. 

This recital was somewhat similar to that of the old lady 
in Richmond, and was equally affecting. I could not avoid 
mingling my tears with theirs. How strong are the ties of 
parental affection, which often seem made up and woven 
with our very life-strings. 

We retired to rest, and notwithstanding I was quite weary 
with my day's journey, it seemed as though I could lie 
awake, and contemplate this solitary, yet lovely family. 

Here, but a few days ago, was a lovely blooming form, 
just ripening into usefulness, her mother's solace, her father's 
hope, and on whom the little ones doted to the extent of 
their capacities. It was to save her mother's step that she 
went out in that unguarded manner, as the errand required 
despatch. 

Although this young lady was the picture of health, with 
ruddy cheeks and ample form, how applicable here are Tup- 
per's lines on death : 



436 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

" Keep silence, daughter of frivolity — for Death is in that chamber ! 

Startle not with echoing- sound the strangely solemn peace. 

Death is here in spirit, watcher of a marble corpse — 

That eye is fixed, that heart is still — how dreadful in its stillness ! 

Death, new tenant of the house, pervadeth all the la brie ; 

He waiteth at the head, and he standeth at the feet, and hideth in the 

caverns of the breast ; 
Death, subtle leech, hath anatomized soul from body, 
Dissecting well in every nerve its spirit from its substance ; 
Death, rigid lord, hath claimed the heriot clay, 
"While jovouslv the youthful soul hath gone to take its heritage." 

Early next morning we partook of an excellent breakfast, 
and bade adieu to this hospitable Athenian family. And were 
it in my power, would heap blessings on their heads, and 
strew their paths with happiness and peace. 

It was a lovely morning, and at about nine o'clock we 
made the land, and were soon clear of Berts lot. 

At noon, we rode a short distance out of our way, in 
order to reach what we thought to be a tavern; both our- 
selves and horse wanted some refreshment. On reach ina; it, 
we found a collection of people outside the door, and there 
seemed to have been some trouble around the premises ; we 
soon ascertained what the difficulty was. Two men had 
swapped horses, and it appeared that the swapper had cheated 
the swappee, who wanted to annul the trade, and get his 
horse back ; to this the fellow would not listen, consequently 
they had a small fight. How it ended, I don't know; am 
certain that I did not feel interested enough in them to care. 

We called for dinner, when a great, tall slab of a girl 
came in to knew what we would have, whether meat zcittals, 
or bread and milk. We replied, " beef steak, if you have 
it, or a piece of ham." After waitng a long time, Dolly in- 
formed us that our dinner was ready in the next room ; 
and true enough, it was a dinner. Here was a large pudding 
dish, with meat enough for ten hungry men, and the meat 
fairly swimming with melted grease ; then there were two 
large pies, a loaf of bread, a plate of butter, a piece of 
cheese, a dish of potatoes, and a saucer of pickles. 

Now Dolly knew we were hungry, and governed herself 
accordingly. She waited upon us very attentively, and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 437 

seemed much afraid that we had not made a dinner, because 
we left more than half she had placed before us. Oar bill 
for this dinner was twenty-five cents each. 

We started in good spirits for Skowhegan, and arrived 
there about sundown, on Saturday. 

Next morning, at Sunday School time, I took a walk 
towards the meeting-house, and must say that in no country 
town have I ever seen a prettier company of young ladies 
and children, nor those that were more fashionably dressed. 
The town is prettily situated, containing some fine farms and 
a beautiful waterfall in the centre. 

We were out early on Monday morning, as the stage left 
at nine o'clock, for Augusta. I saw no more of the shingle- 
machine fellow, although there were a number of lowers 
hanging round for their morning dram, which consists of 
New England rum and half a pint of molasses. I entered 
into a joking conversation with some of them, while on the 
piazza. Said I : 

" You appear to be a hard set of fellows here." 

" Yes, sir ; they '11 take your eyeteeth out, unless you look 
sharp, and keep your mouth shut." 

" How do they dispose of log-stealers here ? " 

" How do they dispose of them ? Why, they must ketch 
'em first. There are fellows here that will steal a log di- 
rectly before your eyes, and you won't know it. There 's 
Ned Sprowl ; he 's the slickest thief in the whole State of 
Maine. I'll tell you what he did. 

"One of our lumber dealers had over a thousand loo-s in 
the booms, waiting a chance to get 'em over. Every morn- 
ing he missed a number of his logs, and was determined to 
watch 'em himself. He put on his big coat, took his gun, 
well loaded with duck shot, a bottle of stuff, and straddled 
a big log. It was a bright moonlight night ; after a while 
he gave a look round, took a swig from the bottle, and fell 
asleep. In the morning he awoke, and found himself astride 
the bark. Ned Sprowl had been there and hauled the loo- 
out from the bark, and never waked the fellow." 

The stage being ready, we jumped in, and were soon safe 
and sound in Boston. Perhaps the reader would like to know 



438 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

what disposition we made of our property. I gave our kind 
host a power of attorney to sell mine for one cent an acre ; 
and if he could not obtain that, give it to somebody, and 
pay them something for owning it. My comrade did the 
same, and if it is true, as some geologists say, that stones 
grow, Ben must have a powerful crop by this time. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

Allusion to a previous chapter, relating to the fate of my fellow apprentices, 
— My attention again drawn to the subject, on meeting one who had 
been a convict in the State Prison, — Several years a teacher in the 
prison, — Remarks. — Meet an old acquaintance, — His rapid downfall, — 
His son,— Downfall and ignominious end, — My friendship for my friend, 
His behavior, — Dies miserable, — Become acquainted^ with the his- 
tory of two young convicts, — Disposition to hide their sins,— -Remarks 
of an old sinner,— His honest confession, — Murder of the Warden, — 
Discharge of one of my scholars as evidence,— His genteel appearance, — 
Recommitment to prison, — Liberation of another, — Calls on me, — 
Supply him,— Goes to New Bedford,— Returns,— Is the same Villain 
still,— Ungrateful conduct,— Arrested, — Sentenced to House of Cor- 
rection, — Advice to the young,— Always willing to help the poor and 
afflicted, — Sometimes treated with ingratitude, — Assist an old drunk- 
ard, — His happv reform, and peaceful family, — Supply him with nec- 
essaries, — Another State Prison story, — Hypocritical rogue, — His ap- 
prehension, and history,— Thefts,— Appeals tome for sympathy,— Have 
nothing to do with him. 

Ix a previous chapter, I alluded to tlie fate of some, who 
were apprentices with me, and of others, who were my contem- 
poraries. In walking down Washington street one day, I 
met a certain character, who, to use the common phrase, is 
coining money, in a most nefarious business ; who usually 
mingles in the best society. 1 could not refrain from looking 
back to the place where 1 first saw him, though on no consid- 
eration, would I ever mention his name. I will however relate 
a few incidents which rather conclusively show that State 
Prison conversions do not often amount to much. 

For several years, I had in company with others,^ at the 
solicitation of a Society of benevolent individuals, visited the 
State Prison, at Charlestown, on alternate Sabbath days^for 
the purpose of teaching the convicts, who were divided into 
classes, and invariably gave the greatest attention to the 
instruction. The chaplain, Mr. Curtis, was apparently a 



440 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

man of exemplary piety, who did all that lay in 1h3 power 
for the present, and future welfare of the prisoners, and 
was sure to mark the incipient signs of repentance in any 
with whom he conversed, was also faithful in pro; noting its 
growth, which in some instances he felt satisfied, was consum- 
mated in genuine conversion, which in two other cases was 
the means of obtaining executive pardon, and premature 
discharge. 

At the early part of my services at the prison, while look- 
in fj round the chapel I saw a man anion 2: the convicts, who, 
during his apprenticeship, was one of my most intimate com- 
panions, a steady, industrious, and respectable youth. He 
became a man, left his mechanical profession, followed the 
sea, became master and owner, married into a respectable 
family, had two children, a son and a daughter. The boy 
was well educated, and also followed the sea. Now, mark 
the downfall, and tell me how it could be. 

Capt. S., enjoyed the confidence and respect of those who 
knew him. But, all at once, like the gathering of a thunder- 
storm, or the destructive tornado, he fell, like Lucifer from 
Heaven, passing rapidly through all the grades of vicious 
delusion, until he was locked up in the State Prison for 
stealing. 

During the first two years of his imprisonment, his son was 
faithful and affectionate to his mother and sister, throwing 
in his earnings toward the support of the family. But as 
suddenly as did father, so did he fall ; became a drunk- 
ard, was discharged from his employ, and finally hung, 
as a mutineer, on board the U. S. brig, Somers. 

The chaplain of the prison felt encouraged from what he 
saw, that this unfortunate man was a true penitent. His 
sentence was for three years, and at its expiration, on the 
day of his release, I met him. and proffered my friendship. 
He told me that he had seen his wife, who was willing to 
receive him again, and to live with him. In order to encour- 
age the reform, and to assist him until he could get into 
some employment, I furnished him witli fuel, groceries, and a 
supply of clothing, for all which he appeared v^ry grateful. 
He was a skilful turner, and told me that he only wanted a 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 441 

small lathe and some tools to commence with, and he wonld 
then earn a o-ood living. I felt much pleased with his de- 
portment, and furnished him with all he wanted, and with 
money, with which to purchase stock ; all went on well 
for several weeks. One evening, his daughter came to my 
house in tears, and begged 1113 to come to the house, for her 
father had abused her mother shamefully, saying, " it was 
impossible for them to live together." 

I went immediately over, saw them, expressed my surprise 
and regret, that, under the favorable circumstances with 
which they had met, that they could not banish the remem- 
brance of the past, and look at the future, under God's 
blessing, as the bright sunset after a stormy day. To be 
brief, he turned like the " dog to his vomit, and the sow to her 
wallowing in the mire," gave himself up to intoxication, and 
died a drunkard ! Notwithstanding the prospect before him, 
of seeking God's blessing, and ending his days in happiness 
and peace. 

My visits to the prison, were on alternate Sabbaths ; and 
for several months I had the same class, which consisted of 
six young men, neither of whom were over twenty-five years 
of age. It was not allowed for a teacher, to hold any con- 
versation with a convict scholar on any other subject than 
that which concerned his lesson, or the application of it to 
the present case. But I could not resist the temptation, to 
digress from rule so far, as to enquire of each one his name 
and term of sentence. I commenced with the one opposite 
to me, and in a low voice asked his name, and the above par- 
ticulars. He gave me a name, whether true, or an alias, I 
could not tell. He belonged to a town near Worcester, 
Mass., and when arrested, was doing a prosperous business, had 
been married a year, and had one child. Said he : " I am 
entirely innocent of the crime alleged against me, and for 
which 1 am now suffering; it was for forgery. I was in com- 
pany with some young men one evening, when the conversa- 
tion turned on beautiful hand writing. I was asked if I 
could imitate that name. I did it so well, that none of the 
others could distinguish the original from the copied. Next 



442 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

day, I was arrested on charge of forgery, tried, and senten- 
ced for five years in the State Prison." 

This was the sum of his story, which might do to tell to 
marines, for sailors would not helieve it. I showed no signs 
of unbelief ahout his story, merely observing that if I were 
living at the expiration of his sentence, I should like to see 
him. 

I could not help noticing the cast of this young man's 
head, his high, and well-formed forehead, brilliant and pen- 
etrating eyes, together with a fine manly form ; but, alas ! 
what does all this amount to? he is a State Prison convict, a 
stigma, which time may partially cover, but is never for- 
gotten. 

The next case was a youth from the country, he was also 
innocent of the crime for which lie was imprisoned ! What an 
outrage upon society, when an innocent man is arrested for 
an alleged crime, tried, and found guilty by twelve impar- 
tial jurymen, and then in consummation of this act of injus- 
tice, the stern judge pronounces the appalling sentence, two 
days solitary confinement, and five years hard labor in the 
State Prison ! " Woe unto you also ye laivyers ! for you lade 
men, with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch 
not the burdens with one of your fingers. " This young man 
very briefly told me his story ; which was, that some stolen 
property was found in his possession, but he coidd not tell how 
it came there! he had been in prison two years, and had three 
more to serve. Neither did I intimate to him, that I disbe- 
lieved his story, and was sorry to find that neither of them 
had ingenuousness enough tc Qpenly confess their crimes and 
manifest some signs of repentance. But mark the contrast; 
the third man on the seat, who was a rough, highwayman- 
looking fellow, with short wiry red hair, face full of large 
freckles, and a wicked looking eye. During the time that 
these innocent vouno-sters were telling their stories, he was 
reachino: forward, and attentively listening* to their state- 
ments. He was an entire stranger, probably never having 
seen them before meeting in the class. After the boy had 
got through with his story, this fellow very deliberately 
straightened himself up, and giving me a sort of leering look, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 443 

said he, in a low voice, of course, " I wonder, sir, how it is 
that these two innocent chaps are allowed to sit with me. I 
acknowledge that lam a big villain, and I deserve to be here. 
I broke into a house and helped myself to a fine lot of silver, 
but I got drunk one day, and told of the robbery, and they 
just nabbed me, and put me here for ten years. But never 
mind, I '11 be a good blacksmith when I get out," 

There was one other, whose term of imprisonment would 
expire in a few weeks, and to whom I merely remarked, that 
I should like to see him after his liberation, gave him my 
address, and said no more. A very short time after this 
private interview, Mr. Lincoln, the warden of the prison, was 
murdered by a convict in the workshop-, where our young 
forger was employed, who was an eyewitness to the assault. 
One day a gentleman called on me, neatly clothed in a hand- 
some suit of black, with white gloves, gold watch elaborately 
chained, and making a very polite bow, " How do you do, 
sir ? perhaps you don 't recognize me ; you remember your 
class at the prison." I immediately recollected that fine 
countenance, took him by the hand, and enquired how it was 
that he was at liberty. He replied that he had been par- 
doned in order that he might give testimony against the 
murderer of the warden. Our interview was short at this 
time, but he called on me again, saying, that when the trial 
was over, he was going home, and hoped to pass the re- 
mainder of his life in an honest endeavor to get a good 
living, also to regain a respectable standing in society. But 
alas ! how frail is man, and how weak are resolutions when 
made in our own strength. It was only a short time after 
this interview, that I read the arrest of this innocent young 
man for a larceny, that would, without any doubt, send him 
back to his old quarters, where he might have the pleasure 
of putting on his uniform and sitting again beside his old 
friend, the red haired burglar. According to appointment, tl e 
young man who was to" be* liberated in a few weeks, came 
to my house, and then informed me that he belonged to New 
Bedford, and would like to go home ; but had neither money 
nor clothing. I supplied him with a suit of clothes, and 
gave him five dollars to bear his expenses, and for which 



444 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

he seemed very grateful. Not many days after his de- 
parture, I received a letter from him, in which he said he 
was so persecuted by his old acquaintances, on account of 
having been in the State Prison, that it was impossible for 
him to remain there, and should return to Boston, which 
he did, and came to me for advice and assistance. He said 
that he had worked a few years in a cabinet maker's shop, 
at the prison, and thought that he understood the business 
well enough to work at it for a living. Accordingly, with 
the assistance of two others, we procured him a situation in 
a cabinet maker's shop ; procured him several jobs, such as 
making work-tables, and benches for some benevolent ladies, 
who were willing to pay him a generous price for the arti- 
cles. He had not been many days in the shop, when the 
workmen began to miss their tools. At length the young 
man was suspected as being the thief, was accordingly 
watched, and caught in the act of pocketing a nice gauge ; 
he escaped from the shop, and from the young man who de- 
tected him. Complaint was immediately made to the police 
officer, who ascertained his boarding-place, which was in 
Broad street, near the old Custom House. 

The officer was on the lookout for him, when by-and-by 
the gentleman came along, and the policeman made an at- 
tempt to nab him. The fellow sprang from his grasp, ran 
to the wharf and jumped overboard. But unfortunately for 
him it was nearly low water, and there he was nearly up to 
his arms in mud, " steadfast and immovable." After a 
great deal of trouble in getting boards and ropes, and amidst 
the jeers of a crowd of Irishmen, he was hauled out. rinsed 
off, and carried to jail. By some means he had got hold of 
a miserable tool of a lawyer, who had been made acquaint- 
ed with the true character of the fellow, and his dastardly 
treatment of those who had so kindly loaned him shop-room 
and tools ; for on searching his trunks, over twenty dol- 
lars worth of stolen property was found. This pettifogger 
knew all this, and vet was trying to get him clear! lie came 
to me to know if 1 would use my influence in behalf of the 
prisoner. 

" O, yes, you shall have all my influence to get him back 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 445 

to the State Prison, where all such fellows ought to be, during 
their natural lives." 

He was sent to the House of Correction for one year, and 
I never saw him again. Now, young readers, you perceive 
that I have been rather explicit in narrating these State 
Prison incidents, and my reasons are : 

First, that you may see the danger of petty thefts, which 
are most generally insipient big ones. Secondly, pernicious 
influence of bad companions, and the certainty that your sin 
will find you out. Bad habits, of whatever class they may 
be, when once imbibed, are hard to be eradicated — often 
continue to grow until the committing of some great crime 
brings the perpetrator either to the gallows or the State 
Prison, the ignominy of either, lasting through a whole gen- 
eration. 

1 have often been laughed at for showing sympathy, and 
endeavoring to assist the wretched. It is true, I have given 
hundreds of dollars to alleviate the condition of the poor — 
of which there are three kinds, viz : God's jwor, the dev- 
il 's poor, and poor devils, all of which I have endeavored 
to do toward them as I should wish to be done by, were 
I in their condition. In some cases I have met with base 
ingratitude and abuse. But never mind, the balance is on 
my side ; what I have given in true benevolence is not lost, 
but will come back with ample interest. The narrow-souled 
WTetch who withholds his hand from assisting a fellow- 
creature in distress will surely get his pay. I have said that 
in some cases I have been requited with ingratitude, but one 
pleasing instance of appreciated kindness, such as I will now 
mention, goes to offset a dozen of the other. 

During the Washingtonian movement in 1845, there was 
a man who lived in a neighboring town, for many years a 
notorious drunkard. His familv had suffered much, being 
often destitute of a morsel of food. Early one morning, a 
man said to me : 

" There goes old , he is just come in for a regular 

drunk. He gets a few dollars, and then, instead of providing 
food for his family, keeps drunk until his money is gone, then 
goes home and abuses them." 



446 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I ran out and caught hold of him. I saw that he had 
already made a beginning. I caught bis arm and asked 
him to step in with me for a few minutes. At first he re- 
sisted and began to show fight, but after much persuasion he 
sat down with me. I took his fevered hand and looked him 
in the face. Said I, " now you have come to Boston to pass 
your time in beastly intoxication. You have a family who 
want the money that you are going to throw away for rum. 
Now, my good fellow, go immediately home, but before you 
go, my friend here will take you to Washingtonian hall 
where you can sign the pledge, and I am sure that if you 
leave off drinking, you will yet become a happy husband." 
The old man listened with attention ; he then, grasped both 
my hands, and commenced weeping like a child. He de- 
clared that no one had ever talked to him in that style 
before, but had called him a drunken villain and various 
other insulting epithets. Said he, " I will sign the pledge !" 
My friend conducted him to the hall — he signed, and went 
home a sober man. 

A week after this interview, I ascertained where he lived 
and went out to see how he got along. When near the 
house, I passed by on the other side, to ascertain if I could 
see him, and what he was about. His regular business was 
that of a wheelwright, and could have constant employment 
if he would keep sober. I observed that he was busy at 
work, so 1 crossed the road, and went into his shop. At first 
he did not recognize me, but in a minute he caught my hand, 
and invited me into the house, and there was a scene for an 
artist. At a window, sat a half-clad girl making a check 
shirt. The neighbors, having heard of his reform, now com- 
menced assisting the family. A younger girl sat knitting 
with neither stocking nor shoe to her feet. She was also 
poorly clothed. But the most affecting scene of all, was the 
wife, sitting with an infant at her breast. The poor woman 
looked the very picture of sorrow, her eyes sunken, face pale, 
and furrowed, as though the tears had frequently coursed their 
way from those lustreless orbs. The nursing infant bore 
the very lineaments of its mother's grief, looking emaciated 
and sickly, as though it could hardly find sufficient nourish- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 447 

menfc from nature's fountain to sustain its equivocal existence, 
and when introduced to the emaciated wife, she received me 
with a sort of melancholy joy, as though she had said, " Oh, 
sir, I fear 'tis too late!" In a few minutes she seemed to 
brighten up, and said she felt rejoiced that her husband had 
signed the pledge, " and oh ! I pray that he may keep it." 

I saw their wants, bade them good-by, and went home. 
Early next morning I packed up a two bushel basket full 
of provisions, with some articles of wearing apparel, and sent 
it to them, and had the pleasing satisfaction of hearing 
some months afterwards that they were all right. The old 
man was a thorough teetotaller, the family were all comfort- 
able, and continued so the last time I heard from them. 
Reader, there is no fiction about this story, 'tis true, and do 
you think that I shall ever lose the value of the provisions 
that 1 gave this family? I have one more State Prison 
story to tell you, and will then go about something else. 

I think it was in the Autumn of 1835. I attended the 
Baptist Church in Federal street, under the pastoral care of 
the Rev. William Hague. Several times at our vestry prayer 
meetings I noticed a very gentlemanly looking young man 
who usually wore a large broadcloth cloak, his hair fixed off 
in the first style. He was a regular attendant on Sabbath 
days, as well as at all the prayer meetings. He frequently 
visited the pastor, conversing chiefly on the subject of religion, 
and became familiarly acquainted with the deacons and the 
leading members of the church. He frequently took an act- 
ive part in the conference meetings, and one Sunday evening 
he arose, and with a drawling, melancholy voice, said that 
he had been very much shocked at the wickedness of a young 
lady at the house where he boarded. She had actually 
played a march on the piano during the intermission, and it 
made him feel so bad that he was obliged to retire to his 
room and go to prayer. 

After a few weeks, he proposed himself for membership, 
and really, all thought him an exemplary and pious young 
man. But not wishing to be thought egotistical, or of 
arrogating to myself any superiority in a knowledge of 
human nature, will just say, that during this time, I had not 



418 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

the least confidence in him, for I caught him in a falsehood 
to begin with. He appeared to he very much attached to 
me, saying that he was in the Mediterranean with me. He 
had probably heard me say that I was two years there, and 
thought that he could manufacture a sort of intimacy out of 
it. Neither did I wish to make known my scruples, fearing 
that possibly I might be mistaken, in which case my re- 
marks might be injurious to him. At the same time I felt 
well satisfied that he was a fire-ship in disguise. Another 
thing excited my suspicion, he frequently asked me if I 
knew of any employment that he could engage in. Now, 
here he was, rigged out like a nabob, boarding at an ex- 
pensive house, and no employment. He passed the regular 
examination, as to his Christian experience, was baptized, 
and received as a member of the Church. But somehow, 1 
could not feel towards him as I should. I knew nothing 
about him derogatory to the Christian character, and as a 
matter of duty, should have felt the same cordiality for him 
as for any other, but it was not long before the true char- 
acter of our newly-initiated brother came out. About three 
weeks after his reception into the Church, at one of our 
evening meetings, the pastor requested the male members to 
remain after the meeting was dismissed. He then said 
that he had some unpleasant intelligence to communicate, 
which filled him with distress. It was, that the young man 
of whom I have been speaking, had that day been arrested 
for stealing. A committee was appointed to investigate 
the affair, and report at the next church meeting. On the 
following day I ascertained the particulars of the theft, 
which were that, in passing along the south side of Quincy 
Market, he fixed his eye on six tubs of butter, and very 
adroitly, with a piece of chalk, wrote his initials upon them, 
then stepping oft' a short distance, called a hand cart, and 
told the man to take that butter and follow him. He put 
it on his cart, no one asking any questions, and went off, 
the fellow leading him up to Cunningham's auction room, 
corner of Milk and Congress streets. The butter was put 
into the store. Our gentleman, witli his large cloak and 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 449 

dangling tassels, stepped up to Mr. C , saying, that he 
was to leave in the eleven o'clock train, and he had the re- 
mains of a large invoice of excellent butter, which he wanted 
sold for cash, as soon as possible. While waiting for the 
sale, a police officer, accompanied by the hand cart man, 
stepped up to him, put his hand on the gentleman's shoulder, 
" How do you do, sir? How do you sell butter?" Heat 
first denied any knowledge of it, but it was no use to deny 
it, he was marched off to Jail, and locked up. On the same 
afternoon on which I had ascertained these facts, a paper 
was brought to me, on which was written, with a piece of 
charcoal, " My dear friend, please call and see me as quick as 
you can; I wish to see you very much." I thought probably, 
that he might have some disclosures to make, which might 
benefit somebody, so I went, and obtained permission from the 
jailor to talk with the prisoner through the grates. As soon 
as I saw him, he commenced a regular boo-hoo, sobbing away, 
at a great rate, held his delicate hand through the bars for 
me to shake, and begged me to do him one favor, which was, 
to be his bondsman for two hundred dollars, before he came 
up for trial. Not wishing to add irony to misery, nor to 
multiply words, I declined having any further conversation, 
excepting only a few words of advice, and left him. 

I noticed while looking into his cell, that there were two 
savage looking villains as his companions, who seemed to 
laugh at the tears of this hypocrite. I learned further, 
about the history of this unhappy man, that he had been for 
many years a consummate villain. 

When he came to our church, he had just been liberated 
from the Thomastown State Prison, having served two years 
for stealing a quantity of watches in Portland. On leaving 
Thomaston, the first thing he did was to procure a suit 
of sailor's clothes, and by representing himself as a sea- 
man, who had just left the hospital, excited the pity of a 
benevolent captain, who shipped him for a short trip to the 
South. He made out to rob this kind captain, and purchased 
the genteel suit he then wore, with the stolen money. On 
searching his trunk, after his arrest, a number of books, be- 

cc 



450 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

lono-ino- to Mr. Hague, were found, wliicli lie had stolen when 
on his pious visits to that gentleman's study. What dis- 
position was made of him I don't know, hut about two years 
afterwards, he again came to me, but I positively refused to 
have anything to do with him. 



CHAPTER XXV. 

Return of my son from California,— Comply with his request,— Arrives 
' safe— Unjust tariff,— Falls into the hands of villains,— Discovery of 
gold —Become interested in California speculation,— Determine to go to 
California,— Prevented by sickness,— Recovery,— Embark on board 
Empire State,— Description of the passage,— Arrive at Chagres,— 
My companion,— Engage a boat,— Detention,— Start,— Strong current 
against me,— Stopping place for the night —Difficulty in procuring 
shelter,— Sleep in a pigsty,— Description of my lodging,— Unceremo- 
nious leave of my fellow lodger,— Meet my companion in the morning, 
—Get underway,— Chagres river,— Next stopping place,— Description 
of our entertainment, — Our hostess, — Another day dawns,— Off again, 

Arrive at Cruces, — Amusing scene, — Sickness and death,— Miserable 

fare,— Difficulty in obtaining mules,— Engage them at high rates,— 
Pass a miserable night,— Morning dawns,— Poor breakfast,— Start for 
Panama,— Dreadful road,— Exciting scenes,— Suffer from hunger,— 
Leave my mule.— My condition,— Exhausted,— Animated by Gods 
promises, — Arrive at Panama, — Description of the country, — Sick man, 
—Effect of kindness,— Remarks on dying,— Story,— Remarks on Pan- 
ama, — Much sickness, — Embark on board the steamer Unicorn,— De- 
scription of the Passengers,— Incidents,— Card playing on the Sabbath, 
—It is stopped,— Villanous character of the passengers,— Arrive at 
Acapulco,— Difficulty.— Origin of the trouble,— Arrival at San Fran- 
cisco,— Appearance on entering, — General character of the population, 
— Enquiring for my son, — Found the scoundrel who cheated him,— - 
Miserable accommodations,— Cases of sudden transition from prosperity 
to beggary, — Secure a passage to Sacramento, — Perilous adventure, — 
Gale,— Arrival at Sacramento,— Result of companies,— Auction sales, 
— My business apparently all right. 

In 1849, my eldest son returned from San Francisco, hav- 
ing gone there from the Sandwich Islands. It will be ob- 
served that this was some time before the gold discovery.^ 

California had just been taken possession of by the United 
States, but not yet received into the Union. My son gave 
such a nattering account of San Francisco, I was induced to 
comply with the request, which was the object of his return. 

He wished an assortment of goods, and a small, fast-sailing 
vessel, which he felt sure would turn to a good account. 



452 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I furnished him with the vessel and goods ; he sailed, and 
arrived safe at San Francisco. 

But notwithstanding the United States had possession of 
Upper California, the old Mexican tariff was still in force, 
which on some articles was very high, and considerably re- 
duced the profits ; hut the goods, taken altogether, paid a 
fair profit ; and after the discovery of gold, the vessel was 
sold for a good price. The young man would have done 
well, had he not subsequently fallen into the hands of a con- 
summate villain. 

When the California fever began to rage, and had become 
absolutely an epidemic of a most contagious character, I be- 
came connected with others, in parts of voyages, which we 
supposed would do well, for we had no reason to think other- 
wise. 

I felt much anxiety about the result of my son's business, 
and had determined to go to California, calculating to arrive 
there in season to meet the vessels in which I was concerned ; 
but was detained in consequence of an attack of cholera, 
which confined me to the house about six weeks. After my 
recovery, however, the determination to go not having abated, 
I obtained a passage to Chagres, in the steamer Empire 
State, Capt. Wilson. 

On board this steamer there were about three hundred 
cabin and steerage passengers, among whom were about forty 
regular New Orleans gamblers, together with several ladies, 
of doubtful reputation. 

There were also some who had run away from their fam- 
ilies, and some who were fleeing from their creditors. 

It usually happens, that men, or rogues, who possess cun- 
ning enough to evade justice, most generally bring them- 
selves out by boasting of their success ; and so it was with 
these men, who seemed to take a pride in telling how they 
dodged the constable. One of these worthies was two days 
and nights stowed away in the coal bunker of the steamer, 
while two constables were in search of him ; one of whom 
took a station on the steamer's deck, the other at the head 
of the wharf. There were among the cabin passengers, 
however, several gentlemen of the highest respectability. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 453 

We arrived at Chagres in eight days from New York. 
There were four of us who had been previously acquainted 
with each other, and it was our intention to travel too>ether, 
until we reached San Francisco. 

As I had some little knowledge of the Spanish language, 
I went on shore and bargained for a boat to take us up the 
Chagres river to Cruces. 

This being at the early part of the emigration, there were 
many more inconveniences and difficulties to encounter, than 
at a subsequent period. The negro boatmen were very saucy 
and obstinate, notwithstanding the price for taking passengers 
up river was ten times as much as it had been before the 
gold fever broke out. 

After aereeino; for the boat, and having our luggage on 
board, and as we supposed, everything ready for a start, we 
found the niggers had gone off, nobody knew where ; at 
length, by searching, I found one of them, and demanded 
the reason why we were not on our way, as several boats had 
already started. The fellow replied they were getting their 
food, and would soon be down. After waiting with much 
impatience for nearly two hours, and threatening to take out 
our trunks, they made their appearance, and started. 

There was a strong current against us, and it was with 
much difficulty that we made the least headway ; bat by 
keeping close in with the bank, and with a vigorous use of 
the poles, they managed to make a little progress ahead. Af- 
ter sundown it soon became quite dark. We had now reach- 
ed a miserable stopping place, which they called Gattoon. 
There were no sleeping places here, nothing but a few bamboo 
negro huts. I was aware that to sleep in the open air in this 
region, was very dangerous. What was to be done ? I tried 
among the huts, and could see no place fit for a dog to lie "in. 
There were several other boats that had stopped here, and 
on the beach were groups of passengers, that intended to 
pass the night in drinking, smoking and singing. The rea- 
son why I felt so anxious to get under cover, was, that I had 
hardly recovered from my late illness ; and felt afraid that 
exposure might produce a relapse, which of course in a place 
like this, would end in death. I had missed my companions, 



454 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and as the night air become chilly, was determined to get 
in somewhere. 

A short distance from the boat was a large pigsty, built of 
bamboo, and over the swine there was a sort of chamber where 
the husks were kept. I managed to crawl into this chamber, 
but tbe floor was so slight, I was fearful that it would give 
way and let me down among the grunters ; at any rate, I 
was under cover. I had not been here Ion 2:, when I heard 
one of my companions enquiring for me. He was a very 
heavy man, and I knew that the floor would not hold him, so 
I lay perfectly quiet. 

There were six large hogs in the sty, and they knew that 
some lodger had taken possession of the upper part of 
their domicil ; whether they were afraid of losing their pro- 
vision, or were indignant at my impudence in thus intruding 
upon them, I cannot say, for they kept up such a hideous 
squealing and grunting through the night, that sleep was 
out of the question ; and if my bamboo floor had given way, 
shocking to relate, what ivould have been my fate? 

At daybreak I left my lodgings, without saving even good- 
morning, to any one doivn stairs ; went over to the boat, and 
there they were strewed along the beach, some asleep, and 
some half drunk, trying to sing. I found my companion, 
who had managed to get along, somehow or other through 
the night. We began now to muster up our niggers, who 
were not far off, and were soon under poles again. Notwith- 
standing the rapid current against us, and the little headway 
we made, the balmy air, beautiful prospect on each side the 
river, and the sweet singing of birds, altogether made it a 
most delightful morning. 

Chagres river, for beautiful and picturesque scenery, is not 
surpassed by any other in the world. We had an ample sup- 
ply of provisions but were somewhat cramped for room, be- 
ing obliged to sit or lie in one position nearly all the time. 
We passed the day very pleasantly, and at night stopped at 
"Dos-Hermanos," or two brothers. Here was but one hut. oc- 
cupied by an old, decrepit negro woman, that much resembled 
an orang-outang ; there were also, two sharp-snouted, half- 
starved pigs, and a few miserable looking chickens, in the 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 455 

hut with her. We obtained permission to lodge in an old 
shanty belonging to the estate, which was nothing more than 
a few bamboos stuck in the ground, with others across, and 
the roof thatched. Poor as it was, it afforded a shelter from 
the night air. 

We had not been long on our backs, before we found that 
there were others there who claimed a pre-emption right, and 
had assailed us from the crowns of our head to the soles of 
our feet. I went into the old orang's hut, and asked for a 
candle, but such a thing was unknown to her. At la3t, how- 
ever, by rummaging over her traps, she found a piece of 
sperm candle about an inch long, which she had kept as a 
curiosity, not knowing either its use or value. I bought it, 
and when I cut the wick clear and lighted it, she was much 
astonished that she had not made the discovery before. This 
brief light enabled us to clear away the rubbish, so that we 
made out to live till morning. 

As soon as day dawned, we were out, breathing the nox- 
ious and miasmatic air, and listening to the songs of the par- 
oquets, which were flying around in myriads. Rather than 
to be on the river another night, we told our boatmen if they 
would get us into Cruces, during the day, we would give them 
five dollars extra. This offer seemed to have the desired ef- 
fect. They pulled and tugged, and in order to assist them, 
when we came to a bend in the river, all got out and walked 
across, which very much facilitated the passage. At sunset, 
we arrived at Cruces. 

This had been a feast-day in honor of some tutelary 
Saint. The natives, young and old, male and female, were 
nearly in a state of nudity, dancing, singing, and carrying 
on at a great rate. We got into a tent with some others 
who were going to California, and were told by the man who 
kept it, that there were many cases of the Isthmus fever in 
our immediate vicinity, that there had been many deaths, 
principally Americans. The food here was miserable, con- 
sisting chiefly of rice, and dried fish, which was abominably 
dear. Here were a number of villanous operators who had 
established themselves at this post to rob all who came in 
their way. 



456 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Our next business was, to procure mules, -which had also 
become a monopoly. A few designing follows had bought 
them all up, and let them out to emigrants at enormous 
rates ; but there was no help for it, we must get to San 
Francisco at any rate, so we engaged our mules at sixteen 
dollars each, for Fan am a. After passing a miserable night, 
and partaking of a poor breakfast, mounted our mules, and 
started for Panama. 

I had been told that the road was dreadful; but soon 
found both occular and physical demonstration of the truth 
of all that had been said about it. Our caravan consisted of 
about forty : we were soon among the rocks, and commenced 
the ascent through the tortuous gorge, then coming down 
into a sea of mud, where the animals sunk, in some instances, 
quite up to their bodies. In these cases, the rider must dis- 
mount if he is not thrown off, and obtain the assistance of 
others, to extricate the poor beast ; to do which, is always 
a difficult matter, and in some cases impossible. And then 
the poor animal must either be killed or left to perish in 
the mire. 

I met a man who had been obliged to leave two mules in 
this dreadful condition : he said he was unwilling to kill 
them ; as it was impossible to extricate them, he knew of no 
alternative, but to leave them to their fate, fearing that he 
might get mired himself. While he was telling the story, 
the tears were trickling down his eyes, in compassion for 
the miserable animals ; offering any man fifty dollars that 
would go back and shoot them. I was pitched into the mud 
several times, and once thrown off on the rocks, and providen- 
tially escaped injury. 

These animals are remarkably sure-footed, if the rider 
will allow them to take their own course, they get along much 
better. It was very evident now, that my mule could not hold 
out for the whole journey. Several had already given out, and 
were left standing in the road. The riders, however poor 'they 
may have been at home, now found themselves on their ]egs 
again. 

I had taken some articles of provision at Cruces, which 
were put in a small basket, and hung on the mule's back, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 457 

but by some means it bad fallen off, so I bad nothing 
to eat, and no way of getting anything until my arrival at 
Panama. My poor beast now came to a stand, and if he had 
been a descendant of Balaam's ass, and had inherited his 
power of speech, would in all probability have told me, that 
he could go no further, and that I must shift for myself; 
and would also have asked me to look at his back, which I 
accidentally did, and found it completely raw. 

1 was now six miles from Panama, the company had all 
gone ahead, except those pedestrians who had been unhors- 
ed, and who were scrabbling along as well as they were able. 
I was quite exhausted, and my feet much swollen. I took 
an affectionate leave of my poor animal, and left him to his 
fate, while I calmly resigned myself to mine. My shoes, in 
consequence of being saturated with mud, were almost 
useless. I found it hard work to get along. But that 
ever-abiding talisman and watchword go ahead, which has 
cheered me in many subsequent difficulties, gave me a new 
impetus. 

I found it necessary to sit down and rest quite often, and 
though hungry and thirsty, that cheering promise contained 
in God's word, fear not, for I am with thee, inspired me with 
strength and courage ; and at eight o'clock in the evening 
reached the shanty hotel, called Oregon House. 

It was full to over flowing ; but no matter for that, lam 
with thee, rung in my ears. I applied to the landlord, who 
very kindly gave me a small cot bedstead, without bed or 
bedding upon it, and on which I threw my weary body, and 
after resting a while, obtained some food, and again lie down, 
but not to sleep. For, overhead, there were crowds of half 
drunken fellows, who kept up such a hideous roaring, that to 
sleep was impossible. 

My cot was within two feet of a sick man, who had been 
taken down with fever. At midnight, he began to groan 
in a most distressing manner. I spoke to him in a soothing 
tone ; he was evidently in much pain, and was fearful that he 
was going to die. 

I arose, and asked if I could assist him in any way, he 
answered, no. I then began to cheer him up ; offering my 



458 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

assistance in any shape, and told him not to think of dying 
in this wretched hole. I got him a swallow of brandy, 
which soon relieved his pain, and in the morning he was much 
better. I afterwards saw him in San Francisco. He was 
then a great strapping fellow, big enough to eat part of an 
ox. 

And, to digress a moment from my narrative, I would re- 
mark, that I firmly believe many die before their time. 
I do not wish to enter into an argument on this point ; for, 
perhaps the reader may stop here, and ask, how any one can 
die before their appointed time. Neither do I now have any 
reference to suicides, but wish merely to state my position, 
and then leave the subject, after relating one or two exam- 
ples that have come within my own observation. In the 
course of my narrative, I shall have occasion to mention sev- 
eral instances which may be relied on as facts. 

It is well known, that the nervous system has a great 
deal to do with animal life, and those who possess weak nerves, 
are easily excited. Many cases have occurred, where persons 
have dropped dead under sudden excitement, either from 
fear or joy. 

The nervous system is the balance wheel which regulates 
the physical and mental powers, and when that is deranged, 
we are comparatively good for nothing. 

Now let us apply this to a sick person, who, probably, may 
have been previous to their illness, of what is usually called 
a nervous temperament. Sickness having rendered what 
was weak before, still weaker. 

Suppose it to be a young lady ; she is taken suddenly ill. 
Eelatives, friends, and acquaintances, will naturally call to 
see her, and though her sickness may not be of a fatal char- 
acter, yet, one of these intruding visitors, may be an old 
Granny, who, with spectacled eyes, and a look of horror, de- 
clares that the "poor, dear creature r ' is going, just as her 
dear Betsey did. She sees the same deathly looJc, and she must 
die ivlietlier or no ; and she does die. 

Now, as I have before observed, without going into an ar- 
gument, say, that if this young lady had seen a few cheerful 
companions, or a judicious clergyman, in all probability she 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 459 

would not have died, or at all events her life mio-bt have 
been prolonged. 

This is not a fancy sketch, and I could name parallel in- 
stances, were it not for taking up too much time, at the pres- 
ent stage of my journey to California. Will only add one 
case where resolution on the part of the patient, kind and 
encouraging conversation by the visitor, has produced a 
speedy recovery, and radical cure. I 

Some years ago I had an intimate friend, who had been 
taken suddenly ill ; he had been a strong, athletic man, 
having previously enjoyed excellent health. 

As soon as I heard of his sickness, which was some days 
after he was taken ill, I called at his house, and on entering, 
was met by his wife, who, as soon as she saw me, burst into 
tears, saying, " she was going to lose her dear husband," and 
immediately gave vent to a paroxysm of grief. 

She took me to his bedside, when I at once saw that his 
dying, was all in my eye. What, with the doctor, who was 
intent on a good bill, and the old women, who were fast 
frightenine; him to death, I have no doubt he would have 
died of inanition. For, neither doctor nor nurse would allow 
him any food, except a little weak tea, and a very small 
piece of toast, twice a day. 

My first salutation was, " halloo, William ! What are 
you doing here ? M 

He rolled up his eyes like a dying calf, shook his head, 
" 01 I am very weak." 

< 'What's the matter?" 

"0! IdontknowP 

" Have you eaten anything to-day? " 

" O ! no sir ; " says his wife, " the doctor won't allow him 
to eat anything." 

" Well, now look here," said I to his wife, " you are starving 
him. Send immediately, and get two pounds of tender loin, 
broil it well, and give him a small piece at a time, and 
when that is gone, get more, and I will insure you that he 
will live, and soon get well." 

She did so, and in a few days I called again ; he was up, 
and dressed, walking about the room quite cheerful, and in 



460 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

a few days more, lie was about his business. He is now, 1856, 
stout and hearty, and likely to live many years. 

To resume my journey, I had been twice at Panama in 
1820, and there was a marked difference in the population, 
between that year, and 1850. Then, there were only a few 
Spanish citizens and about one thousand soldiers, and at si- 
esta time in the afternoon, all was quiet as the grave, but 
now, the place was one continual scene of fights, rows, drunk- 
en yells, and every species of confusion. Nights and Sun- 
days were no alleviation. The police regulations were 
wholly inefficient, the authorities not daring to imprison an 
American, let the offence be what it might. And here might 
be seen a specimen of the future population of San Francisco 
and the mining districts. 

There were many cases of Isthmus fever, many of which 
terminated in death. The very idea of dying in this place, 
was worse than death itself. 

As our party all had through tickets, the company provid- 
ed us with a passage to San Francisco in the steamer Uni- 
corn, Capt. Porter. She sailed from New York some three 
months previous, with passengers for California, stopping at 
Panama for provisions and coal. 

We had among our cabin companions a number of West- 
ern boicie knife fellows, who were gambling night and day. 

On the first Sabbath after leaving Panama, they got their 
cards out the first thing after breakfast, and commenced 
playing. I went to the captain and asked him if he allowed 
gambling in his cabin on the Sabbath. He replied that the 
passengers from New York had continued to do so since they 
left there, and he doubted whether he coidd stop it now. 

" Then/ 7 said 1, " you are no longer master of your own 
ship, if your authority does not extend far enough to stop 
what is not allowed on any other American steamer, that I 
have ever been on board of, and if you do not stop it, you are 
not the man I took you to be." 

He was willing to make the attempt, however, went below, 
and requested them to abstain. They at first showed symp- 
toms of refusal, but finally concluded to put away their 
cards. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 461 

They were down on me, in rather an underhanded man- 
ner, making frequent allusions to Methodists, picking out 
particular passages in the Bible, reading them aloud to the 
female passengers. Notwithstanding all this, I was treated 
respectfully by all, being cautions not to come in collision 
with them, for I saw that they were a set of villa nous despera- 
does, each carrying a bowie knife, or a revolver fully charged. 
One day an innocent sort of a fellow made a remark which 
one of these wretches did not happen to relish. The latter 
drew out his knife and made a plunge at him. Fortunately 
lie dodged the knife, jumped up and ran among the crowd, 
and the murderer after him. My blood fairly chilled, for I 
expected to see that horrid looking knife plunged into his 
body. He was rescued by the others, but there the fellow 
stood, trembling with rage with his knife in his hand, swear- 
. ing he would have the fellow's heart's blood. 

At Acapulco there was a row with the authorities on shore, 
which resulted in the imprisonment of one of our steerage 
passengers. Here was a time; there were two other steam- 
ers in the harbor, full of passengers for California, many of 
whom were of the same class with ours. The news of the 
imprisonment of this man caused a great excitement. A 
meeting was held on the beach, and resolutions passed to 
rescue him at any rate. The cause of his imprisonment was 
for grossly insulting a Spanish officer, and I do not hesitate 
to say that in nearly all the difficulties that have taken place 
between these natives of Granada and California Indians, 
from the commencement of emigration to the present time, 
1856, where lives have been lost, and men have been maimed 
and robbed, that some turbulent, unprincipled Western men, 
have been the agressors, wdio, being better armed, and pos- 
sessing more bodily strength, have robbed and otherwise in- 
sulted these harmless people, who of course will seek for retal- 
iation, and then the whole country is up in arms for revenge. 
I have been an eyewitness to many of these scenes. 

The man before alluded to, was liberated on the payment 
of a fine of fifty dollars, and on the morning of sailing, the 
officer who had been insulted, having business on board, was 
met in the gangway by this fellow who had before insulted 



462 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

him, and here he added another cowardly assault, which 
might have stopped the steamer had it not been settled on 
the spot. 

We sailed from Acapulco for San Francisco, where we ar- 
rived after a passage of thirty-five days from Panama. All 
over the hills, as far as the eye could see, were white tents. 
The bay was crowded with every sort of a thing in the shape 
of a vessel, the flags of every nation under heaven floating 
in the breeze. 

San Francisco was filled with gamblers, rogues of every 
species, cut throats, highway robbers, Sydney convicts, vil- 
lanous commission merchants and bankers, fraudulent auc- 
tioneers, hypocrites, apologies for courts, and some of the 
most miserable and contemptible pettifoggers that could be 
scraped together from every section of our country. Every 
sort of government official, from the Collector to the Harbor* 
Master, looked out to feather their own nests, and succeeded 
in getting a pretty good pile of Uncle Sam's money. I have 
given a pretty good catalogue of characters, every one of 
which I think can be identified by others as well as myself, 
as it happened that I was simpleton enough to get into the 
fangs of some of these worthies. Notwithstanding the broad 
sweep I have taken, I don't wish to be understood as saying 
that there were no honest men among them, for there were 
men who were honest then, and have continued so up to this 
time, and with whom I would trust millions, whose reputa- 
tion for honesty remains intact. I shall pass over this de- 
scription of California men and manners for the present, and 
mention a few incidents that occurred during my residence 
there, then leave the country in possession of its ruler and 
owner, the Devil, and would say to any who may see their 
own characters among those that I have drawn, as the cari- 
cature printer said to me at Windsor, Chap, xix : 

" I have a right to make a print or a picture, if n/)t ob- 
scene, on any subject I choose, and if any one sees their own 
likeness there, they must call me a clever painter for making 
so ffood an imitation." 

My first object, after I landed, was to find my son ; and on 
enquiry, ascertained that he had gone to the Sandwich 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 463 

Islands. I found the fellow who had cheated him, and to 
all appearances was, when I saw him, fast going to perdi- 
tion ; notwithstanding, only a few months hefore, he was re- 
ceiving $190,000 a year for his gambling houses and brothels. 
And when I last saw him, he was a worthless vagabond ; 
just what others, whose names I could call, must surely come 
to, according to the retributive justice of Heaven. I have 
already seen the fate of some, and others are sure to come 
along in their turn. 

Capt. B., myself, and one other of our companions, took 
up with a temporary residence in a half-built shanty, and 
continued to live there as well as our circumstances would 
permit. 

All sorts of provisions were abominably dear, besides being 
very scarce. Capt. B. and I were waiting at San Francisco 
for the arrival of vessels from Boston, in which we were con- 
cerned. There was a brig at Sacramento, which had been 
there a few weeks, owned by a company of which I was un- 
fortunately one. I was obliged to wait several clays before 
an opportunity offered of getting up from San Francisco, as 
no steamer had yet been put on the river, although there was 
one fitting for that purpose, by a commission house, that were 
thought to be somewhat richer than the Rothschilds ; but 
they run along a little while, and finally funked out, and 
became beggars. This boat was advertised to sail next day, 
at 4, P. M. The weather was rather cold and rainy. I went 
down to the landing with a heavy pea-jacket on, and a very 
heavy pair of boots, for which I had paid fifty dollars. 

When I came to the beach, the last boat had gone off ; 
but as there were four others beside myself who were pas- 
sengers, the agents hired a boat with two men to take us on 
board. The boat was soon piled with trunks, so that there 
was scarcely room to stand, and a very poor chance for the 
men to row. The steamer lay more than a mile from us ; 
it blowed furiously, beside a heavy tide setting against us. 

When we got out into the strength of the wind and tide, 
our case appeared almost hopeless. Both boatmen were in- 
toxicated, their thole-pins broken, and here we were fast 
drifting out to sea. I felt so provoked with the drunken 



464 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

scamps, that I wanted to beat them over the head with the 
oar. And in addition to our comfort, we were drifting broad- 
side across the chain of a large English ship; which, had 
we struck it, our fate would have been sure death. But 
providentially, when within a few feet of the chain, we saw 
a whale boat coming round the bow, in which were two 
Chinamen and a Swede, besides a man with a steering oar. 
They were pulling with all their might to get ahead ; the 
boat was half full of water, and they dare not stop to bail 
her. I suno; out to them to come towards us ; we were at the 
same time, working with all our might to keep our boat off 
the chain ; and when the whale boat o*ot near enouo-h to ven- 

7 CD CD 

ture it, I made a spring, and reached her, but soon saw that 
my condition was very little better than before. The whale 
boat was fast sinking: ; the man that was steering her, de- 

CD ' CD * 

clared that it was impossible to get anywhere, and we must 
drift out to sea. 

" O, I think not," said I. " Pull away, boys." I turned 
to with my hat, bailed away, and very soon found I was 
gaining on the water. 

About a hundred yards from us, I saw a small shore boat 
pulling along under the lee of a ship. I hailed her at the 
top of my voice ; finally, the fellow edged off towards us, and 
when she was near enough, I made a leap into her. 

" Now," said I, " my dear fellow, I want to get on board 
that steamer." 

I sat down, backed his oars, and by pulling up under the 
lee of the vessels with incessant labor for more than an hour, 
we got near enough to catch a rope from the steamer, and 
was soon safe on her deck, and I assure you, I was thankful. 
The boat I left first, I believe was saved, but do not know 
the fate of the whale boat. It blew so hard, that the steamer 
could not get underway until next morning. We made a 
short stop at Benecia, and arrived at Sacramento on the fol- 
lowing night. 

There were quite a number of vessels there, but many of 
them were valueless, as it was impossible to make any repairs, 
or obtain a crew, even to get to San Francisco. These ves- 
sels had been owned by companies, who had, in almost every 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 465 

case, exploded, sold out everything for a song, and cleared 
for the mines. 

I was much amused, one day, on hearing the crier, who 
goes round on horseback, advertising the fixtures and furni- 
ture of a barque, for sale at auction. He cried out in a long, 
drawling voice : 

" To be sold this day, at the levee, the cabin furniture, beds, 
bedding, and a lot of stuff belonging to the brig Jane. The 
company have all burst up, and gone to the devil." 

I believe there was not one out of the numerous companies 
that were formed in the Atlantic States, that arrived in Cal- 
ifornia with the unanimity with which they started. Many 
of them having previously drawn up the most rigid police 
and moral regulations, making it penal to use any kind of 
profane language, or to engage in any sort of gaming. 
Then, previous to sailing, they must all go to some public 
place of worship, and a farewell sermon preached to them ; 
subject, Qold Diggings. 

But, alas ! these very exemplary young men soon found 
how evanescent is that happiness, where gold is at the bot- 
tom. Many of them, before they got up with Cape Horn, 
were in open rebellion against all discipline ; and as soon as 
the vessel reached her anchorage at California, the whole 
concern was dissolved. The brig that I went up to see, was 
all right ; they were selling her cargo, and everything was 
' then apparently doing well. 

D D 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

Return to San Francisco, — Purchase a lot on which to erect a house, — 
Condition of the streets, — Opinion of the climate, — Caution, — Voy- 
ages, — Land purchase, — Price of lumber, — Another owner, — Result, — 
Arrival of the brig, — Difficulty with an upstart, — Difficulty of getting 
up the river, — Trouble with the men, — Go up the Sacramento, — Pur- 
chase a steamboat, — Preparations for going down the river, — Descrip- 
tion of the crew, — Fears excited, — Reach the brig, — Conclude to im- 
prove the steamer, — Return to San Francisco, — Condition of San 
Francisco, — Villanous outrage, — Entire absence of justice, — Hypo- 
crites, — Downfall of nabobs, — Effects of intemperance, — Miserable 
scoundrels calling themselves lawyers, — Description of a California 
court, — Summoned as a witness, — Decision, — Murders and robberies 
on the increase, — Inefficiency of the Municipal government,— Vigilance 
committee organized, — Trial and execution of Jenkins, — Pusillanimous 
wretches object to these noble fellows. 

I remained only a short time at Sacramento and returned 
to San Francisco, to await the arrival of a brig which was 
daily expected. And as our shanty was rather incommodious 
and out of the way, we concluded to purchase a lot and put 
up a coop, just large enough to shelter two of us. 

The streets were in a deplorable condition ; scarcely any 
part of San Francisco, (except on the narrow sidewalk), that 
was clear of mud, which, in many places, was over knees in 
depth. It was with much difficulty that carts could be drawn 
along with only one or two hundred pounds weight. Being 
the rainy season there was no chance for the mud to dry. 

I had frequently heard of the beautiful climate of Cali- 
fornia, but if this is a sample of it, I prefer Nova Zembla, at 
once. From November until May, it is one continued series 
of hard gales, and rain, with a tremendous current contin- 
ually running down the bay. And during what is called 
the summer months, from May till October, after 10 o'clock 
A. M., a cold, deathly wind comes in through the heads, 
which makes it necessary to put on a thick pea-jacket, and in 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 467 

many cases a fire is by no means uncomfortable. At night 
two good blankets are indispensable to keep you from freezing, 
and a sheet-iron case to prevent being devoured by fleas and 
rats. Also a sharp look-out or you will have your skin taken 
off by some smooth-faced rogue. 

I had some misunderstanding with a man concerning: a 

CD CD 

bargain, and on perceiving his drift, named the matter to a 
friend who gave me the following advice : 

" If you wish to escape with one breath of life, whatever 
your trouble may be. don't go near one of those despicable 
wretches, called lawyers." 

I find that I have unconsciously slipped from the indicative 
to the imperative mood. So, if you please, we will go back 
to the lot, on which we intend to build the small house. My 
companion, Capt. B., had selected a location, containing about 
8000 feet, for which he agreed to pay twenty-eight hundred 
dollars. The pretended owner seemed to be a very conscien- 
tious man, saying that he could get a much larger sum for it, 
if his conscience would allow him to ask it. Now was not 
he an honest man ? Well, we agreed to take it and pay him 
his cash in ten days. So we got a little lumber together, for 
it could be purchased then for the very liberal sum of nine 
hundred dollars per thousand feet ! We calculated, that when 
finished, our house would be about the size of a common cam- 
boose house, with very much the same inside finish. 

On the third day after the commencement of our mansion 
while Capt. B. was busily employed on the premises, a gen- 
tlemanly looking fellow came up to him, and demanded what 
right he had to build on his premises ? 

" I have purchased the lot," said B. 

" Of whom, pray?" 

" Of a man named Ross." 

II Well, sir, I am the owner of this property and you must 
move your traps very quick." 

He had got hold of the wrong chap if he undertook to 
frighten him. B. replied civilly, that he should see the man 
from whom he had purchased the lot, and if he was not the 
legal owner he then would leave it. The fellow was satisfied 
with this, and went off. 



468 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Capt. B. went immediately to Ross, and very quietly told 
him the story about the man who claimed it, &c, adding, 
" Now, if you don't pay me three hundred dollars damages 
immediately; I'll haul you up before the Judge in five min- 
utes." The fellow began to turn pale, and to stammer out 
some kind of excuse. Capt. B. was determined. The villain 
paid over the money and here the matter ended. Subse- 
quently, I found it to be a common occurrence for one man to 
sell another's land, or rather, what another man claimed. As 
to the true ownership that was as hard to decide, as it was to 
determine where the first negro came from. 

The brig that I was waiting for had now arrived. She 
had stopped at Valparaiso, and brought some fifty or sixty 
bags of flour on freight, consigned to a house in San Fran- 
cisco. The brig was bound up the river to Sacramento. We 
had the flour brought on shore, and safely piled on the wharf. 
The consignee was notified. Very soon an upstart of a 
youngster came down with his cart to take it away, but just 
as he commenced loading, it began to rain. He then in a 
very pompous manner, declared he should not receive it, and 
if any of it was wet, he should hold the brig for damages ; 
because, said he, it should not all have been landed at once. 

The young man who was supercargo of the brig informed 
me of the difficulty. I hastened immediately to the wharf. 
The boy was there when I arrived, and had just ordered the 
cart oft". I said to him, very pleasantly, " What's the matter, 
sir? He began to stretch himself out, assuming a very dig- 
nified air, and very impudently told me that he should not 
receive the flour. I replied, the brig is bound up the river, 
and as the bill of lading specifies, the flour is to be landed im- 
mediately on her arrival at the port of San Francisco, and 
here it is, and while you are taking it away, if it rains much, 
we will cover it with a sail. He still used impudent lan- 
guage, at which I got provoked, and just went up to him : 
said I, "If you say another word I'll throw you into the 
dock, you good-for-nothing puppy ! there is your flour : now 
go tell your master what I have said to you." The result 
was, that every bag of it was moved before sunset. We pro- 
cured a pilot, and the brig started off for Sacramento. By 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 469 

some carelessness she got on to a bank, fifty miles below, and in 
all probability the river would not rise for some time, so she 
was likely to lay there a month. I felt much troubled at 
the circumstance, as her cargo was lumber, and in consequence 
of the daily arrivals, it was fast falling in value. 

We had another trouble, the men were intent on leaving 
the brig, and it was with much difficulty that they could be 
kept on board. I went up to Sacramento again, to make 
some arrangement about taking off the deck load, and secur- 
ing it ao-ainst the bank of the river until some means could 
be devised for getting it to the city, but I found it difficult to 
procure men to do this, without paying them enormous wages. 
I finally, as the last resort, purchased a small steamboat that 
belonged to a California company. She was to be sold to 
settle up the voyage, but some of the owners wished to retain 
an interest in her which was agreed to. 

I had her immediately prepared to go down river for the 
brig as they had succeeded in getting her afloat, and she 
then lay in deep water. 

The steamer was a small concern, not much larger than a 
common pilot boat, although her engine was to all appear- 
ance a good one, and of sufficient power for a larger boat. 
We wooded up, made the necessary preparation, and started 
early next morning. 

The crew, consisting of myself as captain, a broken-down 
lawyer for a fireman, a half-and-half mechanic who had some 
slight knowledge of a steam-engine, for engineer, and a 
broken-down schoolmaster for cook and general assistant. 
Thus manned and equipped, we started off, to tow a deep 
loaded brig against a strong current, and a head wind. 
While going down river, I had my fears as to the capacity 
and power of the engine, whether it would move the brig 
against such a powerful resistance. I was also aware that 
neither myself nor the engineer, knew much about steam, 
but was certain that the whole matter devolved on me, and 
was determined to make the best of it. 

We reached the brig on Saturday night, lay by on the 
Sabbath, and at 12 o'clock, midnight, roused all hands out, 
got up steam, and with most intense anxiety watched for the 



470 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

decisive moment. We started the engine, and to my inex- 
pressible joy, she went ahead ! 

I jumped on to the hurricane deck over the engine, cheer- 
ing up my legal fireman, who occasionally broke out into a 
moan, declaring he could not stand it any longer, holding up 
his delicate, lady fingers, to show me how they were scratched. 

" Never mind that, my good fellow," said I, " give her the 
resin ; stir up the fire. Engineer, how much steam have 
you F 

He tried the cock, " whiz! ivhiz !" 

" As much as she will bear, sir." 

" Never mind, give her a little more. Stir up the fire ! 
Go ahead, boys !" 

I kept on the forward part of the deck, expecting every 
moment to find myself high up in the world, but found it 
was as necessary to cheer them up, and encourage them, as 
it was to hold up the arms of Moses when he was fighting 
the Amalekites, for as soon as my voice stopped, they began 
to flag, and look very serious. We found it was now neces- 
sary to anchor, in order to fill up the boiler. 

At three o'clock P. M., we partook of some refreshment, 
examined everything about the engine, found it good, got up 
steam and off again. I found by the movements of my 
poor lawyer, that he had much rather have entered a nolle 
pros, and given up the case, than to have gone on with it ; 
and my schoolmaster-cook-and-maid-of-all-woik, was much 
given to declining, which made it necessary that he should be 
addressed either in the potential or imperative mood. And to 
keep matters along, the crew of the brig were employed in 
running out the kedge, and hauling ahead, which kept them 
continually grumbling, and to add to the variety of the 
scene, the mate and pilot got into a fight, and take it al co- 
Tier, it was a funny mess. 

Nevertheless I kept my steamer all right, encouraging the 
fireman to throw in the resin, and stir up the lire, now and 
then enquiring of the engineer how much steam he had. 
"Whiz! whiz!" was the answer. The fore part of the 
boiler was red-hot, still we went along slowly against the 
current, I was afraid to stand over the engine, expecting 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 471 

every moment that something would happen. Bat there was 
no alternative, " Go ahead !" was the motto. 

I thought of some lines which I remembered to have read 
when a schoolboy, and which I applied to my engine : 

" Limbs, do your office and support me well, bear me to Iter, 
iJien fail me if you can /" 

We passed a number of vessels bound up to Sacramento, 
but they could do nothing, and were obliged to lie at their 
anchors, until either a favorable wind or the abating of the 
current would give them a chance to get up. At night we 
could see the mast heads of the vessels lying at the levee, 
which was twelve miles distant. We let go the anchor, and 
took our dinner, after which we turned to, cleared up, filled 
the boiler, and felt quite encouraged. The fireman had got 
over his fright, and 

" Whate'er in docile childhood or in youth, 
He had imbibed of fear or darker thought, 
Was melted all away." 

We had now arrived near our journey's end. The strength 
of the current was much diminished, and it being necessary 
that some arrangement for a berth should be made at 
Sacramento, I concluded to cross the prairie on foot, a dis- 
tance of about fourteen miles, and thought that I could do 
it in five or six hours easily. At daylight, the following 
morning, I went ashore, taking with me some beef and 
bread, the captain's gun, and a few charges of powder and 
shot. After passing through the forest that lines the river, 
found myself on an extensive prairie, bounded by the hori- 
zon. , 

Kept along in the right course, four or five miles, hut 
found it so muddy, with pools of water from the recent rams, 
which were too deep to wade through, that I concluded to 
alter my route, which brought me into a much worse condi- 
tion. All at once I found myself among the fculies, where 
the water was over my head, and a noted place lor grizzly 
bears. Immediately turned about, in order to retrace my 
steps, but was soon bewildered, and uncertain which way to go. 



472 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

I struck out into the prairie again, to take a look round ; 
the sun was obscured, and there was nothing by which I could 
direct my course. Though much fatigued, there was no 
place to sit down, except in the mud. 

It was now getting towards noon, and I began to have 
some slight fears that I must pass the night " out doors." 
While stopping a few minutes to rest, I saw an animal start 
up just ahead of me, attempted to cock my gun, and, behold, 
there was no spring to the lock ! I took it by the muzzle, and 
made it fly through the air. In my trouble, I could not 
help comparing that gun to some men that I have come in 
contact with, though they look very well, and are well 
charged, yet, when required to perform any special duty, 
they have no spring to their lock ! Was now relieved of this 
useless weapon, and went ahead, my eye intently fixed on 
the horizon. I saw something in the distance that looked 
like a man on horseback, and following out the law of 
incidence, changed my course, and in an hour we met, and 
ascertained that I was going directly away from the point I 
wished to go to. He, pointing to a little lump of something 
in the distance, said that it was a load of hay, that not 
broken down, I must go up to it, and then be sure to 
follow the cart ruts, which led into Sacramento. Was very 
much fatigued, and should have esteemed it an act of polite- 
ness if he had given me his horse. 

Continued along, and at last reached the load of hay, 
from which I took my departure with joy. How true it is, 
that in life, never mind what our trouble may be, or how 
deeply we may be afflicted, if we can but find a friend that 
will point us to an object, from which we may travel joyfully 
on to deliverance, how sweet is that friendship ? and tliat 
friend is God. I now placed myself between the ruts, and 
where they were not clearly defined, cast my eyes behind, 
until I caught the line, and kept straight ahead, when they 
soon appeared again. 

My fatigue was excessive, yet nothing could be seen ahead 
but the dim line of earth, bounded by the sky. To my 
great joy, I came to a stone about as large in diameter as a 
peck measure. Robinson Crusoe was not more astonished at 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 473 

the foot print in the sand, than I was at the sight of this 
rock. I sat down. You who loll upon divans, and downy 
cushioned chairs, know nothing of luxury, compared to mine, 
on this hard seat upon this prairie of mud, but we arc 
never satisfied ; soon I wanted something to lean my hack 
against, and then probably should have wanted a pillow. I 
had no time to spare, as it was verging toward sundown, 
and after dark it would be impossible to discern my guiding 
lines. 

I started off .again, much refreshed, and after travelling 
an hour, thought I could discern a white speck, that looked 
like a tent, and on my right there was a lone tree. Soon 
the village of Suterville hove in sight. Now I was safe ! 
and walked over to the tree. Strange as it may appear, 
this tree was truly, solitary and alone, not another within 
four miles, and only a few feet from the ground there was a 
large limb that grew out horizontally from the trunk, with 
smaller ones, so arranged, that it made an excellent couch. 
I lay down upon it, and had a good sleep. 

When I awoke the lights were a sufficient guide, and soon 
found myself in a good tent, with a pot of hot coffee, and a 
fine beef steak. Eubbed myself down with a coarse cloth, 
went to bed, and next morning was good as new. The brig 
arrived that afternoon, and the crew left her as soon as they 
could get ashore. Lumber was now rapidly on the decline, 
and by the time the brig was discharged, it had become quite 

dull. 

Our little steamer having performed so well, we concluded 
to lengthen her out. which would make her much more 
valuable. Our steam crew, however, were part owners, and 
concluded to give up steamboating, and try something more 
congenial with their comfort and education. They sold out 
their interest. We then took her down to San Francisco, 
and added thirty-five feet to her length. After doing tins, 
sold her. San Francisco was now in its zenith of imaginary 
wealth, and of real wickedness: for, though there were 
ministers of the Gospel, judges and juries and a regular 
municipal government, yet, it might in truth be said, there 
existed neither law, gospel, or order. The greatest out- 



474 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

ra^es against individual rislit wore not only tolerated, but 
sanctioned by the law. 

Immediately, on the arrival of a ship, the crews, in open 
violation of the contract which they entered into, by signing 
the articles, deserted, even before the ship had anchored ; 
this, too, in open defiance of captain or mate. The law 
not only sustained them in this villanous act, but obliged 
the master to pay them their forfeited wages. 

Murders and robberies were committed in open daylight, 
and the perpetrators, if arrested at all, were, by bribery, 
suffered to escape. The polls were guarded with bowie-knives 
and pistols, in the hands of reckless and profligate scoundrels. 
Candidates for office, who could furnish the greatest quantity 
of intoxicating, liquor and continue it the longest, were gener- 
ally successful. 

If a stranger died, who had no one to look after his ef- 
fects, the public administrator was sure to get the whole. 
There were many who made great pretensions to piety, who 
kept up a system of espionage over others, writing to their 
friends at home, making statements highly derogatory and 
injurious to their reputation ; and these same fellows were 
violating the Sabbath and doing many things under a cloak 
which they dare not do openly. ' Verily they have their re- 
ward. Among the ministers of the gospel, there were some 
who were godly, praying men, but there were others, who had 
assumed that sacred calling, that cared more for gold than 
for the immortal souls of men, and they proved it too, for 
some of them became gamblers. There were also men who 
had managed to get posssesion of a large amount of gold, 
who became so proud and overbearing, that they could hardly 
be approached by any one who were not as wealthy as them- 
selves. 

During my short stay there, I witnessed the downfall of 
some of these mushroom nabobs, who were glad to take up 
with the most menial conditions, rather than starve. One 
or two instances of this came under my immediate notice. 
A youno* gentleman with whom I had transacted business in 
Boston, "came out to San Francisco, arriving shortly after 
I did ; and certainly, for uprightness, gentlemanly deport- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 475 

ment, and business tact, I knew not his superior. As fast 
as prosperity lifted, dissipation lowered. To my utter as- 
tonishment he called on me one day, intoxicated. I took him 
by the hand, with a view of giving him some friendly ad- 
vice, at which he was highly indignant, as though he enter- 
tained the idea that his condition was not apparent. "When 
I said to him, my dear fellow, you have been drinking, he 
very rudely replied, that it was none of my business, he 
should drink when and as much as he pleased ! 

His career was short. The last time I saw him he was 
nearly in a state of nudity, and looked miserably. I believe 
he was taken to the hospital, where he shortly after died. 
His parents were wealthy, his father one of the most active 
and enterprising merchants in Boston. There were other 
cases of a similar character which also came within my busi- 
ness sphere, but will not detain the reader by naming them. 
Shall pass over many occurrences which would only substan- 
tiate what I have just written, respecting the general charac- 
ter of most of the population of San Francisco, at that time. 
I have spoken of lawyers, or rather a set of black-guards, 
who assumed that title, and will relate one affair in which I 
had an opportunity of witnessing the modus operandi of a 
Californian Court. A gentleman who was my intimate friend, 
had a barque arrive, on board of which were a number of 
passengers. Among them was a squirt of a fellow who cal- 
led himself a doctor. On the passage to San Francisco, this 
chap had given some of the fellow passengers advice about 
the best method of relieving constipation and diarrhoea. The 
ship was furnished with the best medicine chest that could 
be obtained, and the captain freely dispensed whatever was 
necessary. 

Very soon after the arrival of the barque, some fellow put 
the doctor up to making a demand on the owner for medical 
service, rendered during the passage. The owner at once, 
refused to acknowledge any such demand. The other then, 
according to the direction of his advisers, put an officer on 
board the barque and commenced a suit. 

I was summoned as a witness or evidence for the defend- 
ant. The court was held in a shanty made of a lew joist, 



476 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

and rough boards. I appeared, agreeable to the summons. 
The desk for the judge was a rough pen something like what 
we see at Brighton for the temporary security of hogs during 
the sale. There sat a horsejockey looking fellow, with a 
cloth cap on one side of his head, a cigar in his mouth, and 
his feet raised some two feet above his head, upon a crossbar. 
When I entered the Court-room (?) there stood a tall, raw- 
boned fellow, the prosecuting attorney, laying down the case 
to the horsejockey judge, occasionally lifting up his arm to 
give vehemence to his argument, when it was easily seen that 
he had come out unprovided with needles or thread, for un- 
der both arms, the sleeve was torn nearly off, and no signs 
of a shirt anywhere. This genius was laying down what he 
called Iowa law, and when he got off a pretty good grist, the 
judge would remove his cigar, and remark, " Well, I reckon 
you are right!" and when he had closed his poiverful argu- 
ment, my friend's lawyer arose, and he was a greater jack- 
ass than the other. He undertook to quote Missouri law, and 
neither judge nor lawyer knew any more about a ship or 
the usuages on board, than a California Indian. I was cal- 
led on the stand to give my testimony, as to what I knew, 
regarding these matters ; and really as to any respect for 
such a court as this, or anything that could be construed into 
contempt, was out of the question. 

His honor wished me to explain to the Court what I knew 
relative to such cases in the Atlantic States. I briefly stated 
to the jury, that the law required all vessels to be provided 
with a medicine chest, with an ample supply of medicines for 
the voyage, but there was no law that obliged the owners to 
furnish a physician — and in the present case I ventured to 
give my opinion, that a passenger, who was a doctor, had no 
more claim against an owner for medical advice or atten- 
tion, towards a fellow passenger, than a shoemaker would 
have for mending a passenger's shoes. The Court now ad- 
journed for a few minutes to liquor up, and the judge, to get 
a sufficient head of steam on before he charged the jury on 
this momentous case. The sum claimed, was one hundred 
and seventy-five dollars, and from the movements, I was in- 
clined to think that they were determined to have it, which 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 477 

with the costs, would probably amount to three hundred dol- 
lars : and that it would be equally divided between the plain- 
tiff, lawyer, and judge. The jury were a set of rag-a-muffins 
collected from the street by a constable. The case was decid- 
ed against the defendant, and all he had to do was to fork 
over the money, which, including the keepers and expenses, 
was five hundred and seventy-tive dollars. This was Califor- 
nia justice. 

Murders and robberies were now so common, as to be per- 
petrated at noonday. The constituted city authorities were 
wdiolly inefficient. There was no secure place in which to con- 
fine prisoners, a small bribe would break shackles and bolts, 
and set the rogues at liberty again, who, emboldened by 
their success in evading justice, were ten times worse than 
before. But thanks to that band of heroes, the vigilance 
committee ; it was to them that the citizens owed their lives, 
and the preservation of their property from robbery and fire. 
I witnessed five destructive conflagrations, which were with- 
out doubt, in every case, the work of incendiaries. Yet 
through the faithful watchings of the vigilance committee, 
they were checked. The first decisive act of the committee, 
was the execution of Jenkins, a notorious burglar, and an 
escaped, Sydney convict. He entered a store in open daylight, 
knocked the owner down, and carried off a small ironsai'o. 
He was apprehended, tried, convicted, and hung upon the 
flag-staff, on the Plaza, and all within forty-eight hoursfroni 
the 5 theft. This summary act of j ustice seemed to strike a 
terror among the evil doers, and for a short time, things 
went on well, expect, that a parcel of niilk-and-molaj 
fellows began to make loud complaints against the vigilance 
committee, "for taking the law into their own hands:' And I 
am sure from my own observation, that had not these noble 
fellows arisen and organized, in defence of life and proper- 
ty, San Francisco would have swarmed with robbers, mur- 
derers and incendiaries. As for efficient laws to punish 
crime, there was none, neither was there energy enough in 
the municipal government, to detect a murderer, or to so- 
cure him, if apprehended. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

Affair with a miserable scamp calling himself a lawyer, — Vigilance com- 
mittee regularly organized, — Another culprit, — Prompt decision, — His 
execution, — Arrest of two notorious burglars, — Trial, — Attempted res- 
cue by the city authorities, — Incidents of their reception and execution, 
— Dreadful conflagration, — Fickleness of fortune, — Tour through the 
Mines, — Desire to see all that was going on, — Scene at a gaming table, 
— Results, — Meet an acquaintance, — Remarks on California, — Cruelty 
of the Indian quack doctor, — Leave my business with two " nice young 
men," at Panama, — Propose to return home, — Cross the Isthmus,— Ar- 
rive at Jamaica, — Imprudence of the passengers, — Arrive home, — My 
" nice young men," burst up, — Start again for San Francisco, — Sailed 
from New York in the Cherokee, — Arrive at Chagres, — Took boat for 
Gorgona, — Arrive safe, — Procure mules for Panama, — Thrown off my 
mule, — Take passage in the Tennessee for San Francisco, — Taken down 
with fever, — Death of a passenger, — Escape death by avoiding medi- 
cine, — Recovery, — Arrival at San Francisco, — My property squandered 
by these "nice young men," — Live on board the Susan Drew, — Villan- 
ous treatment towards Capt. Constant, by an execrable wretch called a 
" Lawyer," — Terrible fire, — Assist in building a store, — Assist a young 
man in going ahead again, — Remarks of a Boston gentleman, — My 
anathema, — Leave for San Francisco, — For San Juan del Sud, — Arrive, 
— Description of the place, — Difficulty in getting ashore, — Incidents, — 
Previous trouble with Spanish soldiers, — Affair with a Missourian, — 
Trouble with the agent, — No mules, — Obtain them and start, — Diffi- 
culty commences. 

The morning after the execution of Jenkins, there was an 
attempt to get up an indignation meeting, and a pettifogging 
lawyer undertook to make a speech, setting forth the inhu- 
manity of the act, and various tender-hearted remarks. He 
had not proceeded far in his sympathizing speech, when lie 
had to make his escape, or he would most surely have been 
lynched. The idea of a lawyer telling about inhumanity — a 
fellow who would suck the last drop of blood from an unfor- 
tunate man, and leave him gasping, tell about inhumanity ! 

Necessity compelled me on a peculiar occasion, to call up- 
on a lawyer to get a paper drawn which would probably con- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 479 

tain about twenty-five lines. This paper was to be signed by 
two others besides myself. The lawyer that I employed had 
been a Western judge. After the instrument was written he 
wanted his pay, which he said was fifty dollars, but would 
take something less. I told him that when the other parties 
had signed it, which would be as soon as I could get them 
together, we would then pay him. Not being able to find 
but one of the others, the paper remained with him several 
days. As I was walking on the plaza one day, I met this 
lawyer and another. They were walking together. In a 
very abrupt manner he called me by name, and said: 

" You know the number of my office, sir, arid if you donH 
call and get that paper, Til sue you f 

Unfortunately for me, I never had philosophy enough to 
bear an insult. I approached, and told him if he opened his 
mouth to me again in that insulting manner, 1 would knock 
him 'down. He turned pale as death, and said no more. 
The gentleman who was walking with him had gone off 
ashamed of his company. I went immediately to his office, 
related the affair to his partner, who in a very gentle- 
manly manner wished me to take no further notice of it, 

saying, he knew V e was a close-fisted fellow, and wanted 

all he could get, adding that when the parties were ready, 
just come in and we will make it all straight. I met the 
other fellow a few days afterwards, in Well's banking hous , 
He was then as polite as a French barber. 

The Vigilance Committee were now perfectly organized, 
with regularly appointed officers in every department, with 
ample and convenient rooms for trial and confinement. ^ Many 
of the most respectable and influential men in San Francis- 
co were members. 

The next culprit was an English highway robber, who was 
taken in the act. The alarm bell was rung, the court im- 
mediately assembled, the robber was tried, condemned, and 
received his sentence to prepare for death, in one hour. I rep- 
arations for the execution of the sentence were made at the 
end of the wharf. A clergyman kindly volunteered his ser- 
vices to attend him to the place of execution. _ At hist the 
criminal bejran to curse and swear, fairly abusing the good 



480 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

minister who continued faithfully exhorting him to repent- 
ance. The poor deluded convict was apparently inexorable 
until a few minutes before he was run up, then in a faint 
voice asked the clergyman if there was a hope for him. He 
kneeled, made a brief prayer, and was launched into eter- 
nity. 

Everything was conducted in the most orderly and sol- 
emn manner, the whole crowd seemed impressed with the so- 
lemnity of the scene. Next was the arrest of two notorious 
burglars who were tried fairly, having every advantage they 
could desire respecting evidence, in their favor. They were 
however condemned and sentenced to die. One night a pos- 
see of city officers came unawares upon the guard, at the 
committee rooms, rescued these prisoners, and removed them 
to the half-built city prison. But the gallows was not to be 
robbed, as the sequel will show. The city authorities seemed 
to exult over this, what they called triumph of law orer a 
mob. The Vigilance Committee showed no signs of disaffec- 
tion, expressing themselves perfectly satisfied if justice was 
done to the burglars. But it very soon became manifest that 
after a short imprisonment they would be set free. A deep, 
and what proved to be a successful plan, was laid by the 
committee to take these villains from their place of confine- 
ment, and put the sentence which had been justly passed 
upon them, into execution. Accordingly, on Sunday morn- 
ing, which occurred only a few days after they were taken, 
every preparation was made at the rooms, the halters were 
rove through the blocks outside the door, a suitable number 
of persons on the spot ready for duty, a carriage with four 
resolute men well armed, and another containing six also well 
armed, proceeded to the prison, forced the doors, threatening 
instant death to any who should oppose, seized the prison- 
ers, put them into the carriage and drove off. 

At the same moment the committee's alarm bell was run <y 
and in less than ten minutes, over four thousand persons 
were at the place of execution. I arrived in time to get a 
position near to these unfortunate men. On the arrival of 
the carriage, they were harried out, the rope put on their 
necks, and they were immediately strung up. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 481 

It certainly could not have been more than thirty min- 
utes from the time they were taken from the city prison, 
before they were in eternity, or in a fair way for it. One of 
them died without a struggle, but the other, in consequence 
of the rope having slipped round, so as to bring the knot on 
the back of his neck, struggled very much, and after hang- 
ing nearly an hour, was lowered down, and a doctor with a 
lancet, ascertained that he was not dead ; he was then strung 
up again. While they were hanging, two Chinamen came 
along, one of them looking up with a smile, " hiyah, dat do 
em good" They were both cut down, and delivered over to 
the coroner. 

A few weeks after this last execution, San Francisco was 
visited with a dreadful conflagration, thought to be the work 
of an incendiary. This fire was the ruin of many, and in 
which many lives were lost ; but by that indomitable energy 
and perseverance which was characteristic of the place, in a 
few weeks it was again rebuilt, and everything going on as 
before. 

Several incidents occurred during my first residence in 
San Francisco, some of which related to my own pecuniary 
affairs, which would not be interesting to the reader, so I 
pass them by. The others only went to show the fickle- 
ness of fortune, which was fully demonstrated in many in- 
stances which came within my own notice. One gentleman 
became so rich, that it was a difficult matter for him to stand 
still. He was usually seen posted at a corner, with both thumbs 
in the armholes of his vest, occasionally raising himself on 
his toes, assuming such a look of importance, that no one 
could touch him with a ten foot pole. This man became so 
poor, only a few months from this zenith, that he had no 
place in which to lie his head, that he could call his own. 

Another millionnaire? died in an old long boat. There 
were others who were connected with a famous banking es- 
tablishment, and cut a mighty great figure, burnt up, and 
no doubt twisted many an honest man out of his hard earn- 
ings ; and if I should attempt to call these fellows by name, 
it would make a book as large as the London directory. Of 
course these remarks do not apply to honest men. 

EE 



482 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

It had been my intention before leaving California, to 
make a tour through the mines. I had promised to visit a 
company of young men, who were working a claim on the 
Oregon gulch. I took the ivagon for that region, first stop- 
ping at Mormon Island, which had been a very productive 
mining locality ; but now was a nest of rum holes, and gam- 
bling dens. 

It was my principal object, to see everything that belonged 
to the miner's life and characteristic, I mingled with them 
in groceries, gambling houses, tents and diggings. Philoso- 
phers may talk of studying out human nature by those de- 
velopments which they accidentally come in contact with in 
civilized life, or an occasional visit to the poor, but let a man 
spend a week in a mining region, where there is no sort of 
moral restraint, but on the contrary, a full display of the 
very worst passions that human nature is subject to. He 
there sees the full scope of human depravity. 

I went into a gambling saloon where there were six monte 
tables, notwithstanding, there were probably two hundred 
persons lounging round the bar, and hovering round the card 
tables, it was still as a church, hardly a word was spoken ; 
such was the intense eagerness with which the motions of the 
card players were watched. 

At the table where I first stood, there were but two players, 
and those were Western miners, one was quite aged, proba- 
bly, sixty-five, the other a young man ; the latter seemed 
rather cautious, while the former was bent on destruction. 

There was a full peck measure of gold coin upon the 
table, which is always exhibited as a lure. The old man 
had been a heavy loser ; the monte dealer, had kept him 
well plied with liquor, and though intoxicated, his eye was 
keen. While I stood there, his last coin was lost, he then 
drew himself up, took another drink, hauled out from his 
bosom a leather bag containing about a thousand dollars, 
threw it upon the table, and in an exulting manner, accom- 
panied with a horrid oath, declared that he was not broke 
yet. Here were gold scales, all ready to weigh out the 
dreadful stakes! The keen eye of the gambler villain, his 
marked politeness, delicate fingers, studded with rings, beau- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 483 

tifully curled moustache, with the glistening end of a revol- 
ver peering from his hosom, made an impression on my 
mind, that probably will not be erased while I live. The old 
man's bag was evidently fast melting away. I left him and 
passed over to another table. 

Here were three players, this monte dealer was a different 
looking man from the other, for it happened to be a very 
pretty wo man, with two ruffian looking scoundrels on each 
side, to guard her from insult. Here too, was a hugh pile 
of glittering manmon ; one of the players, who by the way, I 
recognized as a Boston man, had been quite successful, had 
about his person, over seven thousand dollars that he had 
won in two hours, having commenced with eighty-four dol- 
lars. I stood aside, so as not to be known. 

He had a friend who took a position behind him, and 
was earnestly urging him to stop. He continued turning 
down the champagne, swearing he would not leave until he 
had burst the bank. 

I left the house in order to procure a sleeping place, which 
I found to be a hard matter, but succeeded in getting a 
chance with a miner, in a bunk without bedclothes. 

Next morning, I saw the Boston man, when a mutual 
recognition took place. I then referred to last evening, he was 
somewhat surprised when he learned that I was there. He 
told me however, that the lady stripped him — he left the 
table without a rial, "and," said he, " here I am without money 
enough to get my bitters." 

The prominent part of the story was, he wanted me to loan 
him a hundred dollars ! That man had a wife and two chil- 
dren in Boston. 

I left this place and proceeded up to where my young 
friends were, passed a few days very pleasantly with them, 
then took a range off in another direction, mingling with 
the miners, some' of whom I found to be very intelligent nun, 
others again, were miserable and dissipated. 

The mines and gold diggings having been so often de- 
scribed, I shall omit anything of a descriptive character here, 
and merely add, by way of closing up my California tour, 
that in my mind, the ultimate success and prosperity of Cal- 



484 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

ifornia yet remains a problem ; and I think it was a great 
mistake on the part of the government, ever to have ad- 
mitted it into the Union. 

It does not require much penetration to see that the ac- 
quisition of that territory never can be of any pecuniary 
advantage to the country at large. There will always be 
contentions and troubles, which will finally end in a revolt. 

Some portions of the upper country, with much labor and 
expense, can be made highly productive ; while a great por- 
tion of it, for agricultural purposes, is entirely useless. As 
long as gold continues abundant, or sufficiently so to pay, 
the population will always be great ; but when that ceases, 
Upper California is done. 

1 noticed that in the immense forests along the Sierra 
Nevada range, not a young tree is to be found. I have seen 
splendid oaks, which, to appearance, contained sufficient tim- 
ber for a ship of three hundred tons. I measured a pine 
tree that had fallen, it having been undermined by gold 
diggers. This tree was three hundred feet long, and eight 
feet through at the butt ; and another that was standing 
near it, was as long, and twelve feet through, and either of 
them would square eighteen inches at the top end. 

The snow lies in the upper valleys nearly all the year, 
and in some places it is more than twelve feet deep, in the 
summer months. Manv of the Indians o-o entirely naked, 
and I believe would never trouble a white man, if the latter 
were not the aggressors. I have met them on the road while 
travelling alone, and they have invariably returned my sal- 
utation with true Indian politeness. 

There was much sickness throughout the mines, and many 
deaths. The most fatal disease was diarrhoea, which was 
caused chiefly by laboring in the water, and a too frequent 
use of ardent spirits. I administered relief to some who 
were sick, and admonished others who were pursuing the 
right course to become so ; quack doctor's fees were enormous 
and in no case would they come nigh a sick man that had no 
money. 

One amusing incident occurred, that really pleased me. 
An Iowa man had suffered much from toothache. One of 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY, 435 

SSwf^W t Came / lon ^ and ™ applied to to extract 
the tooth, which he made out to do in a bungling and pain- 
ful manner. He then says to the man : " * l 

"Your teeth want cleaning ; by doing which, it will pre- 
vent the toothache." l 

" Well, go ahead." 
m So the man sat down, and the doctor went to work, scrap- 
ing and filing a set of teeth that had never been throtA 
the operation before. After he had finished, and both had 
taken a nipper of whiskey : 

" Well, now doctor, what's to pay ? " 
" I shall charge you eighty dollars." 
" What's that, stranger ? " 

' ' Eighty dollars is my price for taking aeout a tooth, and 
cleaning aeout a mouth. " 

m The miner looked at him a few moments, and then step- 
ping on a block, took down his rifle, capped and cocked it, 
and with a savage look and a western oath, ordered the fel- 
low out of his tent, and with a stentorian voice, swore that 
if he was not out of the reach of his rifle in five minutes, he 
would shoot him. The doctor gathered up his leather ban-, 
started, and was soon over the hill. By this time, two of 
the miner's comrades had come in, and to whom he related 
the story. He was a good-natured, clever fellow, and said 
that if the charge had been ten or fifteen dollars, he would 
have paid it willingly, as the whole operation occupied but 
an hour and a half. I thought the doctor (?) was served 
just right. 

During my tour through the mining region, I was much 
interested in the Geological formation of the country, a 
graphic description of which would make a book of itself. 
I returned to San Francisco, and made arrangements for re- 
turning home. 

I left my business with two nice, young men, at least, as I 
thought, for I certainly had a right to think so. They were 
both apparently pious men, members of Christian churches 
in Boston, and with whom I had been previously acquainted, 
before leaving San Francisco. It was understood between 



486 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

i 

us that remittances should be made to me by every steamer, 
until the business was closed. 

I sailed from San Francisco in the Tennessee. Several pas- 
sengers were sick, and one died before we reached Panama. 
We crossed the Isthmus safely, although part of our train 
was robbed, and some of them murdered. We arrived at 
Chagres late in the evening, and with much difficulty got on 
board the Crescent City, then lying three miles out. 

On our way home, we stopped into Jamaica for coal. 
Many of the steerage passengers went ashore, drank freely 
of Jamaica rum, were taken with cholera and diarrhcea, and 
died like fools, after having withstood the hardships of the 
mines for two or three years, and having also, a consid- 
erable amount of gold dust about their persons, of which, 
probably, their friends knew where it went. 

I arrived in Boston in October, and after waiting two 
months and not receiving either letters or monev, felt sus- 
picious that something was the matter. I started off again 
for this land of scoundrels, in the steamer Cherokee. We 
had a regular north-west gale, until up with St. Domingo. 
Our boat groaned and creaked like an old basket ; but she 
carried us safe to Chagres, and that was all we desired. 
We took boats for Gorgona, as it was thought at this time 
of the year to be the best road. Arrived safe, and took 
mules for Panama. 

About four hours out of Gorgona, my mule, a vicious ani- 
mal, threw me on to a ledge of rocks, which knocked the 
breath out of my body for a few minutes, but fortunately, 
escaped without broken bones. I was soon horsed again, 
though in much pain ; went on my way rejoicing, and arriv- 
ed at Panama by sunset. 

I took passage in the Tennessee, and sailed for San Fran- 
cisco. On the third day after leaving Panama, began to feel 
premonitory symptoms of fever. Several were already down 
with it, and one poor fellow, a German died alongside of me. 
I was taken early in the morning, was so much debilitated, 
that I could not stand. Mv friends took me to my berth, 
and called the doctor, who came, saw my condition, and pre- 
scribed. The medicine was brought to me, but as soon as 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 487 

the boy had gone I managed to throw it out of the air-port, 
feeling certain that if 1 took his stuff, should as surely 
die as the others did. He called again, and enquired how 
the medicine had operated ; I answered him in rather an in- 
coherent manner, telling him that it was all right. " Yes, 
I perceive your pulse is better, I will send you two powders ; 
take one immediately, and the other at twelve o'clock." The 
powders came, but they went where I should have gone, had 
I taken them. I was very thirsty, the water was so warm 
I could not retain it, so I took a glass of ale, and felt im- 
mediate relief. I perceived that I had gained strength, and 
commenced rubbing myself with a coarse cloth, and instead 
of water, used the ale. I had been confined to my berth 
two days, which is about the time it takes one to die. I 
thought the matter over seriously, and was determined not 
to die, unless it was God's will that I should, and felt sure 
that if I took medicine, my days were numbered. 

I began to stretch myself out, rub my joints and body witli 
the coarse piece of canvas, and on the third morning, asked 
the doctor for a bowl of chicken broth, which he allowed me 
to take, at the same time feeling my pulse, and expressing 
his surprise at my rapid convalescence while so many were 
still very low ! 

Of course, it would not do for me to tell him that I had 
not taken his medicine, for he certainly was very kind and 
attentive, and it would, no doubt, have hurt his feelings. I 
am certain that my cure was effected by hard rubbing, pah 
ale, and resolution, for before the week was out 1 was on 
deck, to the surprise of many, and though my appearance 
was deathly, yet the old fellow missed me this time. 

On my arrival at San Francisco, I was very weak, but rap- 
idly gained strength and entire recovery, soon ascertained 
,that my nice, young mew had burst up only a short time after 
Heft San Francisco, and had included all my property in 
their assets: and neither of the principals nor the assignees, 
could give me any satisfactory account of it. And to sum up 
the whole matter, it was a regular California failure, which 
means a total annihilation of money, papers, reputation and 
principle. 



488 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

During my stay at San Francisco, the second time, I lived 
on board the ship Susan Drew, owned by Capt. Victor Con- 
stant, of Boston, one of nature's noblemen, a veteran ship- 
master in whom it may be truly said there was no guile. 
And yet these heartless wretches, contrived to involve him in 
a lawsuit. His lawyer, a Boston man, since dead, and gone 

to the . Excuse me reader, 1 came near using an im- 

proper expression. This same lawyer told Capt. Constant in 
my presence, that his case would surely be decided in his fa- 
vor ; at the same time requesting the captain to hand over 
a few hundred, on account ; which he did, and to the aston- 
ishment of my good friend the captain, this infamous law- 
yer turned right about, and favored the case against him, by 
which means he has lost his ship and cargo. 

I have said in another place, that there were many incid- 
ents relating to my business matters, which would not be 
at all interesting to any one, but I wish to be indulged in 
naming one, which goes to show a principle, or spirit which 
I shall leave for the reader to name. 

After the great fire, as I was passing by the ruins of a 
store, I noticed five or six men trvino* to haul a stick of rim- 
ber out of the water. I saw that they were unacquainted 
with that business, so I went where they were at work, 
showed them how to proceed, and assisted in getting one 
piece up ; was going away, when a gentleman hailed me 
and enquired if I would assist in building the store, the 
wages, I think, were twelve dollars per day, and as I had 
nothing to occupy my time, told him yes. 

We built the store, and my wages for that and another 
job, amounted to three hundred dollars. The morning after 
the fire, before I commenced on the store, I was walking 
among a collection of half-burnt goods, and saw a man with 
whom I had been previously acquainted, sitting and mourn- 
ing over a little pile of stuff', that was hardly recognizable. 

" Halloo," said I, " what are you doing here?" 

" Oh, I have lost everything that I had in the world, and 
this pile of rubbish is all I possess, my money is lost, and 
here I am a bco-gar." 

" Nonsense, man, don 't sit here, you see every body all 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 489 

around you going ahead again, come, I will lend you a 
hand." 

So I went on board the ship, changed my dress, brought 
some tools ashore ; we both went to work among the smoking 
timber, and soon cleared away enough for a small shanty, 
which we raised, and boarded with scorched blankets! I 
bought some coarse cloth, and covered the roof, and gave him 
a Jwt-coffee machine, with which he went ahead, and in a few 
months had two thousand dollars. 

During this time, there was a Boston gentleman who was 
continually running round, telling how strange it was that a 
man in my position should lower himself by working as a 
common journeyman. He addressed himself in this man- 
ner to an old ship-master, who was my particular friend. 
The latter turned towards him with an indignant look. 
Said he : 

" You good-for-nothing scoundrel, that man has been 
robbed by just such fellows as you are ; and now, because 
he is trying to retrieve himself by working like an honest 
man, you are running round, trying to injure his reputation. 
Fix up my account ; I want no more business with you." 

My friend was kind enough to call and apprize me of this 
conversation, and early next morning, I met the fellow on 
Long wharf ; he held out his hand for a shake ; I gave him 
a look which I think he remembered till he died, which was 
very soon after. 

Of all the characters in the world, I think a hypocrite is 
the most detestable. Therefore I wish to have it known, 
that, however much I lament it, and my earnest prayer is 
that I may overcome it, I am vindictive, and will only repeat 
upon those who have injured me, the language of Jeremiah, 
Lamentations, 2>d Chapter, and the last three verses, and of 
David, 109th Psalm, 1st to the 16th verses, and there 1 leave 

them. 

Having nothing more to do in San Francisco, Uook pas- 
sage for home in the steamer Independence, for San-Juanr 
del-Slid, which was the Nicaragua route, it having been 
cracked up as the most expeditious. She was an old, rickety 
thing; notwithstanding which, three hundred passengers 



490 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

were willing to risk their lives on board of her. We had a 
fair passage to San Juan, but on the day of our arrival, 
(Sunday) it blew a smart breeze, attended with much rain. 

There is no harbor, the whole bay lying exposed to the 
open sea. The surf was rolling in furiously, and it continued 
to rain hard all day. The word was passed throughout 
the steamer for all passengers to get their baggage ready 
for going on shore ; and as all were anxious to get across 
the country, the rain was not considered an obstacle. But 
landing in the surf was the trouble ; the boats could not ap- 
proach the shore within twice their length ; the negroes waded 
off, and took the passengers upon their shoulders, which was 
little better than swimming ashore, for all were drenched 
through as soon as they left the boat. The trunks and bags 
were also taken from the boats on the heads of the negroes, 
many of whom were drunk, and there they were, negroes 
and trunks rolling over in the surf; some of them were 
knocked open, and scarcely one was landed without damage. 

The principle place to receive the passengers was a long 
shed, with only the roof covered ; and this w T as a regular, 
stinking rum hole. Here we all gathered, like so many 
drowned rats. Among the passengers was a lady, a sea 
captain's wife, who was in rather a delicate situation. She 
was quite wet, and must remain so during the night, as her 
trunks were soaked in salt water, and of course all her ap- 
parel wet. I rendered her husband what assistance lay in 
my power, and finally succeeded in getting a part of the 
shed screened off for her accommodation. 

There was one other house, but it was too small to accom- 
modate more than twenty persons. It had been nearly de- 
stroyed only a few nights before our arrival, by the Spanish 
soldiers, in consequence of some misunderstanding between 
the latter and some forty or fifty Americans. A serious fight 
occurred ; the Spaniards, about two hundred in number, 
assailed the house and fairly riddled it with bullets. Several 
were killed on both sides. These soldiers were quartered a 
short distance from our long shanty, and there was some 
talk of punishment ; but as we were all anxious to get away, 
the matter was dropped. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 491 

It was now night ; there were about two hundred steer- 
age passengers in the building, and nearly all of them were 
drunk. The place was a perfect bedlam, and the air fairly 
rang with drunken yells. I procured a grass hammock, and 
huno- it up away in the further corner of the shed, as I 
thought out of the way of everybody. One of the men 
who was employed in the building, cautioned me about 
snakes. He said there were any quantity of them, of the 
most venomous kind ; and if I did not hang my hammock 
very high, they would crawl into bed with me. However, 
snake or no snake, I turned in, and fell asleep. Just as I 
began to dream about sweet home, I was aroused by sonic 
one throwing themselves across my body. I jumped out. it 
was very dark, and demanded what the fellow meant. Be 
showed no inclination to move, so I cast off one end of my 
hammock, and let him down. The first I knew was a vivid 
sight of the sun, moon, and seven stars. He was a powerful 
Missourian, and hit me between the eyes, such a blow, that 
completelv capsized me. I picked myself up, and got hold 
of something. They say that " a drowning man will catch 
at a straw ; " but I rather think that I caught something 
heavier than a straw, by the looks of his cheek next morn- 
ino-. Several of my friends who happened to be near, came 
to & the rescue, and took him away ; he dropped his hat in the 
fray, which I picked up, and at daylight next morning heard 
him enquiring for it. 

" Here is your hat, sir," said I ; " and do you know how 
you abused me last night ? y 

"Well, now, look here, stranger, I was drunk, lou B 

this cut on my face." 

" Yes, and if I had had a pistol, you would never have 

worn your hat again." 

He was a gentlemanly fellow, after all, and made i every 
sort of acknowledgment. We shook hands, and made the 

matter up. , i 

We had another trouble to encounter ; there were no .mules 
to be had here. At San Francisco, we had paid our fore 
Grevtown, and were allowed eighty pounds of luggage Free : 
all over that was to be paid for to the transit agent, at UK 



492 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

place where we now were, and were also to have mules in 
readiness immediately on the arrival of the steamer. 

There were three persons attached to the agency, who trans- 
acted their business under a tent, a short distance from the 
beach. Much discontent was manifest among the passengers, 
on account of the delay. The agents had sent out muleteers 
in all directions, to search for mules. In the meantime the 
luggage was weighed and paid for. No one thought of look- 
ing at their ticket ; but one man happening to look at his, 
saw that 84 pounds were allowed free of charge. This caused 
a general discovery. The fact was made known to the agents, 
and the money demanded back, which they refused, saying 
that the agent in San Francisco had no right to frank a pound 
of luggage. The tent was now surrounded, and the imme- 
diate destruction of everything belonging to the concern 
threatened, if the money was not paid. They very prudently 
rectified the mistake, and this matter was settled. 

The next trouble was about the mules, which, contrary 
to specification, were not ready. The agents were again 
threatened, and were told that they would be held account- 
able for expenses while we were detained. They were evi- 
dently much frightened, seeing who their customers were. 

On Monday evening, twenty- four mules were brought in, 
and I was lucky enough to get a very poor one. Our lug- 
gage was in charge of the agents, who were to forward 
it immediately to Greytown. At 12 o'clock, Tuesday, twenty 
of us were ready, and started on our journey to Virgin Bay. 
We were advised by those who knew the country, not to start 
until next morning ; but being anxious to leave the miserable 
hole, we pushed ahead, and soon came on to the mud region, 
previously crossing a rapid river about twenty yards wide. 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

Find that we were mistaken in starting so late, — Horrid road, — Party 
stop, — Difficulty in turning my horse, — Pass an uncomfortable night, — 
Dreary prospect, — Mules get mired, — My mule gives out, — On my 
legs again, — Unpleasant position, — Cheered by the promise of the 
Almighty, — Unexpected deliverance, — Groundless fears, — Arrive at Vir- 
gin Bay, — Wash and bathe myself, — Burgo's miserable steamer, — Inci- 
dents, — Uncomfortable night, — Fort Carlos, — Break our Kudder, — 
Make a Substitute, — Rapids, — Interview with female passengers, — 
Their ignorance of the journey, — Advice, — Start for Grey town, — Find 
the steamer Daniel Webster, — Baggage not arrived, — Poor accommo- 
dation, — Sail without our luggage, — Stop at Havana, — Arrive at New 
York, — Bad treatment, at the transit office, — Build a schooner, — Sail 
for Australia, — Wrecked, — Taken off and carried to Hamburg, — Par- 
ticulars in my letter, — Visit to Kiel, Duke of Wellington, — Blockad- 
ing fiett, — Interview with Sir Charles Napier, — Return to Hamburg, — 
Start for Berlin, — To Hanover, — Bremen, — Return to Hanover, — 
Take the cars for Cologne, — Go up the Rhine, — Return to Cologne, — 
Start for Brussels. 

It did not take lono; to convince me that we had made 
a mistake in leaving at midday, as night would overtake us 
before we could reach a suitable place to sleep. Owing 
to the recent rain, the road was almost impassable, our 
mules were fairly wallowing in the mud, and there was do< 
one in the party that had not either been thrown oil, or 
obliged to dismount, in order to extricate his animal. In 
some places we were under the necessity of leaving the mule 
to scrabble out the best way he could, while the riders did 
the same, and when, within half an hour of Bundown, on 
coming to a dry spot, I proposed to stop for the night It 
was then raining quite fast, and darkness would soon be upon 
us. 

But no ; the word was, go on as far as wc can, while we 



494 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

have daylight. Being somewhat in advance of the com- 
pany, and some distance up the side of a rock, beneath which 
was a deep precipice, and the pathway was so narrow, that 
the mule could scarcely get foothold, and now so dark that 
the animal refused to advance another inch. 

Just at that moment, I heard the Indian yell, which I 
knew was a signal for a halt. Here I was, a mile ahead, on 
the edge of a rock ; an attempt to turn my mule would be 
sure destruction to both. To my great joy, I heard the 
footsteps of the guide close by, and called him. With his 
assistance, dismounted, and with good management turned 
the mule round. 

1 rode back to where they halted, and if they had tried, 
could not have selected a worse place. No shelter, except a 
large tree, which, upon the least agitation, poured the water 
down upon us in torrents. We had nothing to lie upon 
except the bare mud, although we contrived to haul some 
small boughs under us, which, however, immediately sunk in 
the mud. 

Our animals remained during the night immovably fixed, 
poor creatures, without food or drink. I think this was the 
longest night I ever knew. I was somewhat afraid of cramp, 
or fever, but escaped both. It was with much difficulty that 
we extricated our mules from the miry clay. We endeavor- 
ed to be as cheerful as possible, being well aware of the un- 
pleasant journey before us. 

We abandoned the idea of keeping together, as every one 
seemed intent on looking out for himself. We had not been 
more than an hour under way, when I heard a loud scream- 
ing some distance behind, which was from an Irish boy, hail- 
ing his father, who was just behind me. The fellow was 
singing out, " Father ! father ! I am stuck fast." I stopped, 
while the father went back, and sure enough, his poor beast 
was so firmly mired that it was impossible to get him out, 
and there he must die. 

My poor brute began to tell me, by unmistakable signs, 
that he must stop. My position now, was anything but 
agreeable. If I could get to Rivas, I was safe, but that was 
impossible. The Irishman and his son were far behind, 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 495 

literally swimming through the mud. Very soon my mule 
stopped, entirely exhausted. I dismounted, and Left him to 
his fate, feeling somewhat doubtful about my own. It was 
noon, and I was entirely ignorant of the distance, or of the 
right road, hungry, thirsty and weary, I scrabbled, having 
lost my hat and one shoe. My shoe, however, after much 
labor, I found again. My strength failed me, and 1 sat 
down on a rock. 

Remembering God's promise, started again, and after wal- 
lowing an hour, came to an old hollow tree, and thought of 
crawling into it, just leaving my head out, and if I died there, 
some one, probably, might recognize me. Again, I will be 
with you, sounded in my ears, so I concluded not to die yet 
And but a few minutes after, a negro came along on a Btrong 
horse. I made a bargain with him for the use of the ani- 
mal, for which I was to pay him ten dollars, on our arrival 
at Virgin Bay. What a sudden transition! Only a few 
minutes before I was wallowing in the mud, expecting t i 
die, and here I am now, mounted on a fine horse, and with 
a guide too ! 

Reader, never distrust your ever-watchful Father, who car rth 
for you, never mind what the trouble is. Put your trust in 
% Ood, and don't give up the ship. But there are times when 
Faith must be kept continually on the stretch, as it will ap- 
pear in my case. My negro was a stalwart fellow, naked as 
he was born, except an old rusty sword, fastened to his body 
with a leather belt. Soon after I had mounted, lie Btruck 
off from the main road, into the forest, cutting away the 
underbrush, with his sword, to make a passage for himself 
and horse, but not cutting high enough for the rider, often 
did I have to dodge very quick, to prevent sharing the Pate 
of Absalom. He was a surly fellow, and took no notice of 
my complaints. All at once, it seemed to flash across my 
mind that the fellow was leading me into the woods, I i i 
and probably to kill me, everything about his movem 
looked so suspicious. In order to be prepared for the worst, 
I kept my hand upon my knife, to be ready in an instant 
He knew I had gold upon my person, for, in adjusting my 
clothes, he had seen it. My fears, however, proved ground- 



496 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

less ; he was leading me along through a better and a short- 
er road. Soon we emerged into the highway again, ascended 
a hill, and there was Virgin Bay, beneath us, with a few 
temporary hovels, and a diminutive steamboat lying about 
a mile from the landing. 

The first thing, after getting into the town, was to make 
the best of my way to the water side, strip, wash my clothes, 
wring them well, and put them on again. It now began 
to rain like fury. On going a short distance, got into a 
rough house, and obtained permission to go into the chamber, 
then stripped myself again, bathed from head to foot, with 
cold water, commenced rubbing with a coarse towel, until I 
felt a glow throughout my body, put on my wet clothes, pur- 
chased some refreshment, and followed the crowd to the 
landing, ready to embark for the steamer. Many of our 
party had not yet arrived, and I had cause to fear that some 
of them had met with a sad fate. 

It seemed as though my troubles would never end. Here 
were two hundred and seventy persons to be crammed on 
board a cockle shell of a steamer, not large enough to ac- 
commodate fifty persons comfortably. We were all to be 
carried to the steamer in a miserable dug out, called a bungo. 
We must also be carried to the bungo on negroes' shoulders. 
It takes but a very little to capsize one of these tubs. 

It may be recollected that but a few years since, we re- 
ceived intelligence that one of them had been overset when 
full of passengers, and over fifty persons were drowned, some 
of whom were not recovered until many days after, having 
a large amount of gold dust about their persons, which kept 
their bodies down. 

When on board the bungo, I at once assumed the com- 
mand, insisting on every one keeping himself seated on the 
bottom. Notwithstanding my exertions to prevent accident, 
it seemed, as if they were resolved to upset her at any rate, 
as many of them were intoxicated. I finally succeeded in 
getting her out into deep water, so that no more could get on 
board. We then went out to the steamer, and when all the 
passengers were on board, her deck was only a few inches 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 497 

from the water. We were huddled together so close that 
there was not room for any one either to sit or lie down. 

The night was cold, and being wet felt very uncomfortable, 
in addition to which we were obliged to stand ankle deep 
in the water until morning. By squeezing along among the 
crowd, I got near the boiler, but was driven away by an 
Irishman who belonged to the boat. Resistance was out of 
the question. 

Early the next morning, we were abreast Fort Carlos, tho 
sun rose beautifully, and the morning was charming. How 
gratefully did I receive his radiant beams upon my wet and 
shivering body. 

But here was another difficulty, the commanding officer at 
the Fort, forbid our passing. They had their guns manned 
all ready to fire into us. Our captain, a drunken, swagger- 
ing fellow, swore he would go by at any rate, but was per- 
suaded to anchor the boat, go ashore, and arrange matters 
with the commanding officer. " This Fort is at the entrance 
of the Nicaragua river, and the right to navigate it bad not 
been negotiated. Matters being settled, we went on our 
way, and through the carelessness of the captain, the boat 
struck the bank, and broke off the rudder. We rigged a 
Kentucky oar over the bow, and went along firstrate. Our 
boat could go no farther than the rapids, over which it is 
extremely dangerous to attempt a passage. Preparation is 
always made to check the boat before approaching too near. 
The boat that followed us was carried among the rocks, 
not being checked in season, she was nearly destroyed, and 
many of her passengers were drowned. Our boat was Bto] 
in season, and hauled safely along-side the bank. \\ e were 
now to leave this boat, and take the one on tin- other Bide, 
or below the rapids. She had just come up from Greytown, 
with passengers who were to pass over the road we had just 
left, being bound to San Francisco. The distance bet* i 
the boats was half a mile. 1 went en board the upward 
steamer, expecting to meet a friend, en rout for California. 
Went into her cabin, and there were ab >nt thirty Lad 
all ages, sizes, and complexions, who were rigged out m 
their finest dresses, and who appeared to be preparing for B 

FF 



498 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

ball, rather than a tramp through the mud. My appearance 
seemed somewhat to startle them ; I apologized for my in- 
trusion by saying that I was looking for a gentleman whom 
I expected to find on board. 

There seemed to be two matron looking ladies, who ap- 
peared to have some control over the rest. So I addressed 
myself to these: "Ladies, I see you are all preparing to go 
on shore. Allow me to give you a few words of advice. 
I have just come from San Juan, and advise you all to 
change your rich dresses for the very poorest you have ; you 
will find no accommodations for ladies on board the other 
boat, and your road from Virgin Bay to San Juan, will be 
one continuous sheet of mud. You can procure no refresh- 
ment on the way, and on your arrival at San Juan, if the 
steamer is not ready, your condition will be extremly un- 
comfortable." 

They appeared much surprised at this information, saying 
that the agents at New York, had given them quite a dif- 
ferent description of the road, representing it as a beautiful 
ride, more like a pleasure excursion, than a journey. I as- 
sured them that it was quite the reverse, the road was in a 
most miserable condition, adding, the moment you leave this 
boat your trouble commences. Even from here to the other 
boat, which is but half a mile, you cannot avoid sinking 
ankle deep in mud, and on board the other, there are no ac- 
commodations for you whatever, nor a morsel of anything to 
eat. When you arrive at Virgin Bay your lives will be 
jeopardized in landing, and then if you don't look sharp 
you will be robbed by villanous agents. There are few la- 
dies' saddles to be had, the mules are miserable, and if they 
give out on the road, what will become of you? You may 
rely on what I have told you. I am very glad that the 
friend I was looking after is not here. 

The ladies began to unrig. No possencvers were allowed 
to go on board until they had finished their newly arranged 
toilet. In a short time they came ashore, metamorphosed 
into novitiates for a nunnery. I saw no more of them. At 
4 P. M., we started for Grey town, and arrived next day at 2 
P. M. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 499 

The steamer Daniel Webster was lying ready for us, and 
was to sail in two days. Our luggage had not yet arrived, 
there seemed to be a general anxiety among the passengers 
whether it would arrive in season for the steamer. There 
were no accommodations here for sleeping except at the rum 
holes. Myself and three others hired a bamboo shed, and 
slept upon the ground ; we having no beds were glad to take 
np with what accommodations we could get. 

The steamer would allow no passengers on board until the 
morning of sailing, and on that day our luggage had Hot 
arrived and were obliged to sail without it, the agenti at 
Grey town assuring us that it should be forthcoming by the 
next steamer, which in some measure relieved our suspense. 
I never saw mine after landing it at San Juan. 

I called on the transit agents at New York, for indem- 
nification. They refused to do anything about it unless com- 
pelled by law. I told them that my loss was $176. 1 did 
not wish to go into a lawsuit, and if they would refund what 
I had paid for its conveyance to their own agents, which was 
eight dollars, I would trouble them no more, which they a 
refused, and ordered me out of the office. Such was the 
treatment I received from this transit company's agent. 

But to my narrative. We stopped at Havana for coal. 
It was but a short time after the filibustering executions, the 
excitement against the Americans had not yet suhsided. A n 
officer came off from the shore to furnish passengers with 
permits for landing, for which we paid one dollar. 1 had a 
pleasant vide around the country, and think there is noplace 
where an invalid could pass the winter mure pleasantly than 

at Havana. T e . T . ... 

I arrived home early in December, 18ol. In 1854, J built 
a small schooner, which I called Sheerwater, put a cargo 
on board, and Sept, 8th, sailed for Australia. Od the LOth, 
a gale sprung up from the S. E., which continued to mere 
until the night of the 11th, when it turned into a fui 
hurricane. We were capsized, taken Iron, the wreck by the 
Hamburg ship, Hampden, and carried to Hamburg, 
mediately on my arrival there, I sent the following letter 
home, which briefly describes the disaster. 



500 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

Hamburg, October 16$, 1854. 

Dear Sir : — I am sorry to be under the necessity of dat- 
ing a letter from this place, so opposite to that of my desti- 
nation. But God has so ordered it, and we must submit to 
his will. 1 am also extremely unhappy that it devolves on 
me to relate a dreadful disaster which has befallen the Sheer- 
water. 

On the 10th ult., it commenced blowing hard, with a heavy 
sea, and continued to increase until Tuesday, the 11th. The 
schooner had behaved nobly, riding over the sea like a bird, 
her deck dry, and everything all right. On the morning of 
the 12th, at daylight, the mate who had the watch, called all 
hands to shorten sail, or rather to take in all, except a small 
piece of the mainsail, to lay her to under. 

We now lay to perfectly dry, but from the appearance of 
the Heavens, feared that the worst was yet to come, and so 
it unfortunately proved. The gale, by 10 A. M., had become 
a perfect hurricane, with a sea that seemed to reach the very 
Heavens, accompanied with floods of rain that for a moment 
would smooth the sea, but it soon rose again like mountain- 
peaks, not one of which came on our decks. 

But now came the blast that was nigh sending us into eter- 
nity. The schooner was thrown down, her masts nearly par- 
allel with the water, the cargo shifted, the water was pouring 
into her, and we thought we were gone. 

She righted during a lull, which brought her deck out of 
water. Directly it came on again, and down she went. We 
sprung to the weather rail, in order to get upon her side, 
which might prolong our lives a short time. She again right- 
ed a little, but left us no hope ; and with much trouble we 
obtained an axe and cut away the foremast. This was a dif- 
ficult job, as it blew so heavy that it was almost impossible 
to make a stroke with the axe. We succeeded in getting it 
over the side which immediately relieved her. Still hung 
by the lee-rigging, which could not be got at ; but at length 
we succeeded in getting it clear. 

It then swung round under the stern, knocked away the 
rudder, and injured the stern post. We cut the weather-rig- 
ging of the mainmast, but it blew so hard we could do noth- 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. .001 

ing more. The mast, on account of the heavy roll, broke 
partly off in the wake of the deck, and split up about fifteen 
feet; it being a tough stick was loath to go. We now lay 
with our deck out of water. Everything in the hold had 
shifted, our water casks stove and empty, provisions wet und 
spoiled, (except our meats). The gale had now somewhat 
abated. We set to work to put things to rights. The sea 
was still running very high, which made it difficult to ae- 
complish much ; but if we could get anything on her to keep 
her steady, we might possibly remain on board a few days 
and run a chance of being taken off. We were quite ex- 
hausted, not having eaten anything for nearly twenty-four 
hours. All were anxiously scanning the horizon to catch a 
glimpse of anything that looked like a sail ; when the joyful 
cry, of " sail ho 1" saluted our ears. A little speck was just 
discernible apparently coining towards us. 

Every eye was now intently fixed upon the stranger, and 
soon discovered to our grief that she was edging off from 
us ; probably we had not been seen. Our feelings may be 
easily imagined. We soon hit upon an expedient which waa 
the means of our preservation. There was a cannon on 
board, that lie just under the hatchway, which we succeeded 
in getting up ; there was also a tin case of powder, that had 
been hermetically sealed, which we were fortunate enough 
to get, and one of the men had some dry matches. 

We fired our gun three times, when the ship run her col- 
ors up, and immediately tacked and stood for us. She hove 
to about half a mile from us, lowered her boats, and came 
to us, notwithstanding it blew very fresh. We all got safe- 
ly on board the ship Hampden, of Hamburg, Capt. A Hansen, 
from the Bay of Mexico bound to Hamburg. She had horn 
thrown on her beam-ends in the same hurricane, and were 
upon the point of cutting away their masts, but by Btaving 
their water casks, she righted. Capt. Ariansen Btated to us, 
that they saw something" black, but could not make out what 
the object was until he saw the smoke. We were on board 
the Hampden thirty days, during which time we were treated 

with much kindness, 

Very respectfully, yours, 

SAMUEL F. HOLBROOK. 




H 
H 

H-l 
I— i 



Pm 

o 

o 

w 



AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 503 

I will just add here, that on my return to the United States, 
I made a statement to the Department at Washington, of our 
rescue and kind treatment hy Capt. Ariansen. 

The Secretary of the State immediately ordered an elegant 
gold chronometer and chain, to he sent to the Consul at 
Hamburg, to be presented to Capt. Ariansen, also a hand- 
some present to Robert Sloman, Esq., the owner of the ship, 
for refusing any compensation for our passages. I received 
the following letters from the Secretary, apprizing me of the 

present. 

Department of State, \ 

Washington, January 17th, 1855. J 

Samuel F. Holbrook, Esq., 

No. 44 Purchase street, Boston, Mass. 

Sir: — Your letter, of the 13th inst. addressed to the 
Secretary of the Treasury and referred by him to this De- 
partment respecting the wreck of the schooner "Sheerwater" 
of Boston, in which vessel you were a passenger, and acknowl- 
edging the kindness extended to you by Captain Ariansen 
of°the°ship "Hampden," and Mr. Bromberg the acting Uni- 
ted States Consul at Hamburg, has been received. You will 
perceive, from the enclosed copy of a communication addrea 
to Mr. Bromberg on the 21st ult., that your suggestion in re- 
gard to a recognition of the valuable services of Mr. Sloman 
and Captain Ariansen has already been anticipated by the 

Department. . . , . 

That part of your letter relating to provision afforded by 
the United States to destitute seamen, has been referred to 

the Fifth Auditor. 

I am, Sir, respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 

W. L. MAKCV. 



Department of State, 1 
Washington, December 21st, 1854. J 

Samuel Bromberg, Esq., 

United States Consulate, Hamburg. 
Sir-— You will receive with this despateh, a bag oontoin- 
ino- a crold Chronometer, with a heavy gold chain attar, ed, 



• ' 



^oq'ii 



504 AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 

which the President of the United States has directed to be 
presented to I. I. Ariansen, for his humane and gallant con- \ 
duct in rescuing from shipwreck the Master, passengers and 
crew of the schooner " Sheerwater " of Boston ; and also 
five packages, enclosing a copy of " Mitchell's Universal At- 
las," and the " National Portrait Gallery of Distinguished 
Americans/' for presentation to R Sloman, Esq., the owner 
of the ship " Hampden," as an acknowledgment of his hu- 
manity and generosity in refusing compensation for the pas- 
sage to Hamburg in that vessel of shipwrecked American 
mariners. 

The Department has learned that the risk incurred by 
Captain Ariansen in rescuing these unfortunate persons was 
very great ; the kindness and attention shown to them by 
him is spoken of in the highest terms of commendation. 

You will transmit a note to the Senate of Hamburg, ex- 
pressing in suitable terms, the high regard which the Presi- 
dent entertains for conduct so noble and disinterested, and 
requests that these presents may be delivered in the name of 
the United States to the individuals for whom they are in- 
tended. 

I am, Sir, &c, 
(Signed.) W. L. MAECY. 

I now take leave for a few days, when I shall resume the 
narrative, and endeavor to amuse the reader with my jour- 
ney through Europe to Sebastopol, Asia Minor, Syria, Pales- 
tine, Egypt, and the Carnival at Pome. 



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